Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has ordered maximum security measures in four western states as part of the nationwide “Operation Independence 200,” aimed at strengthening the country’s defense and sovereignty in response to growing U.S. military activity in the Caribbean Sea.

The measure, announced Friday, applies to the states of Mérida, Trujillo, Lara, and Yaracuy. President Maduro said the move is part of broader efforts to ensure Venezuela’s “integral defense” and maintain peace amid external threats.

“We are completing all preparations to reach the optimal condition for the integral defense of our homeland,” Maduro declared. “In perfect unity of our people and all sectors, we are working to secure peace and defend our sovereignty.”

Venezuelan authorities emphasized that national defense is not limited to the armed forces but includes active participation by citizens. Over 6.2 million Venezuelans have registered with the Bolivarian Militia Force, which will play a crucial role in the coordinated defense effort.

Interior, Justice and Peace Minister Diosdado Cabello announced Thursday that 11 states are already operating under maximum security protocols and that the alert will soon extend to the capital Caracas and Miranda state.

The decision follows renewed U.S. interference in Venezuelan affairs. Earlier this week, former U.S. President Donald Trump admitted to authorizing CIA operations in Venezuela under an alleged “anti-narcotics” directive. Washington has also deployed naval forces near Venezuelan waters, citing counter-drug missions—an act Caracas has condemned as a pretext for regime change and an assault on its sovereignty.

The Venezuelan government has repeatedly denounced U.S. efforts to destabilize the country and undermine its independence through economic sanctions, covert operations, and disinformation campaigns.

Officials say Operation Independence 200 is a defensive exercise designed to ensure Venezuela’s preparedness against any foreign aggression. It reflects the government’s long-standing principle of civic-military unity — a core value of the Bolivarian Revolution.

Maduro reaffirmed that Venezuela remains committed to peace but will not tolerate violations of its territorial integrity. “We are a people of peace, but we will never surrender our sovereignty,” he said. “Venezuela will defend itself with dignity and unity against any imperialist threat.” (ILKHA)