Venezuela’s Defence Minister Vladimir Padrino Lopez reaffirmed the country’s commitment to defending its sovereignty during a ceremony marking the 201st anniversary of the Battle of Ayacucho in Caracas. He accused the United States of using military operations in the Caribbean to intimidate Venezuela and other Latin American nations, framing it as an effort to exert political control over the region. Padrino warned that imperial powers aim to subjugate Latin America and urged regional governments to stay vigilant. He highlighted Venezuela’s strengthened resolve, citing ongoing reforms within the Bolivarian National Armed Forces to counter modern threats, sanctions, and external pressure.