Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has forcefully rejected what he characterizes as American attempts to impose a ‘slave’s peace’ upon his nation, delivering a defiant address to supporters amid escalating military tensions with the United States.
Speaking on Monday, Maduro articulated Venezuela’s position regarding the ongoing geopolitical standoff, stating: ‘We seek peace, but peace with sovereignty, peace with equality, peace with freedom. We will never accept the peace of slaves or the peace of colonies.’ The Venezuelan leader condemned the 22-week US military presence near Venezuelan territory as a form of ‘psychological terrorism’ designed to destabilize his government.
Maduro emphasized that Venezuela’s national resilience stems from robust citizen participation, institutional strength, and the determined will of its people to defend their homeland against external pressure. He framed this social cohesion as an ‘invincible, eternal and perpetual’ foundation of national power that would ensure political autonomy.
The speech comes amid significant US naval mobilization in the Caribbean region. Since September, American forces have conducted at least 21 strikes on vessels suspected of drug trafficking operations, resulting in numerous casualties. These operations intensified following President Donald Trump’s alleged ultimatum to Maduro during a November 21st phone conversation, where Trump reportedly demanded the Venezuelan leader relinquish power.
In response to US pressure, Venezuela revoked operating rights for six international airlines that had suspended services following advisories from the US Federal Aviation Administration. Maduro’s administration maintains that Washington’s actions represent a transparent attempt to orchestrate regime change aimed at controlling Venezuela’s substantial natural resources, including its extensive oil reserves.