Maduro launches consultations on state of emergency decree amid rising tensions with US: Video
Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro announced Sunday, September 28, that his government has begun consultations on a Constitutional Decree of State of Exception.
This would allow the country to declare a state of emergency and grant it expanded security powers in the event of a US military incursion.
Speaking during his weekly program Con Maduro + in Caracas, the president said the measure seeks to “protect our people, our peace, our stability” and would apply “in all directions” should Washington launch a military attack. Maduro argued that Venezuela has already endured “economic, diplomatic, psychological and political” pressure from the United States but has managed to move forward despite the strain.
The Venezuelan leader also aimed at Washington’s waning influence at the United Nations, claiming this year’s General Assembly revealed fewer states echoing the US position. He praised Colombian President Gustavo Petro for his UN speech questioning whether the organisation’s headquarters should remain in New York after Washington revoked his visa, calling Petro’s remarks “memorable” and a sign of “courage and strength.”
The announcement comes amid renewed friction between Caracas and Washington. Since August, Maduro has accused the US of deploying warships, submarines, missiles and aircraft in Caribbean waters near Venezuela. Washington has maintained that the operation is part of ongoing anti-narcotics efforts.
This story is written and edited by the Global South World team, you can contact us here.
