Venezuelan President Maduro Confirms Capture of Seven Foreign Mercenaries
Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, Jan. 7, 2025. Photo: Prensa Presidencial
January 8, 2025 Hour: 8:11 am
The people hold the power of arms to defend democracy from any threat or ambush, he pointed out.
On Tuesday, President Nicolas Maduro confirmed that Venezuelan authorities captured two Colombians, two U.S. citizens, and three Ukrainians who were planning to carry out violent acts in his country.
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“Today, we captured seven foreign mercenaries… We are more united than ever to protect our homeland’s peace and stability. We must stay vigilant and prepared. That is why the activation and training of the combatant bodies of the working class is something wonderful,” he said.
“While we were celebrating Christmas, Venezuelan military forces, security forces, and the people were activated to guarantee peace,” the Venezuelan president emphasized while swearing in the workers’ combatant groups in front of the Miraflores Palace.
“The people hold the power of arms to defend democracy from any threat or ambush, no matter where it comes from. We will guarantee the victory of peace. We’re coming for them because Venezuela deserves respect!” Maduro stated, reiterating that the sovereignty of the Bolivarian homeland is non-negotiable.
To this end, the Bolivarian president announced that he would sign a decree to activate the Integral Defense Leadership Body (ODDI), which brings together all components of Popular Political Power, the Bolivarian National Armed Forces (FANB), militias, and police forces.
Between November and December, authorities captured 125 mercenaries of 25 different nationalities who had entered Venezuela with the intention of committing violent actions. Among other objectives, they sought to target Vice President Delcy Rodríguez, attack public services, and harm other Bolivarian leaders.
“In their desperation, the psychopathic oligarchy looks to the North, believing they can gain strength they do not have here. The Venezuelan people are determined to defend their right to the future,” Maduro asserted and decreed the activation of an infantry force alongside the civic militia in every department.
“Popular power with arms in hand,” he emphasized, highlighting that the combatant bodies are composed of workers, public employees, communities, and other producers across the country.
teleSUR/ JF Sources: VTV – EFE
