Venezuela has initiated large-scale military exercises to protect its airspace amid rising tensions with the US, which has conducted air strikes in the region. Venezuelan Defence Minister General Vladimir Padrino López emphasized the need for preparedness against threats. The US has targeted drug trafficking boats, leading to accusations of narcoterrorism against President Nicolás Maduro, who claims the US is fabricating a war against him. The military mobilization includes civilian militias created by Hugo Chávez.