CARACAS, Venezuela (AP) – President Nicolás Maduro has affirmed his commitment to defending Venezuela's sovereignty amid escalating tensions resulting from the deployment of U.S. warships in the Caribbean. During a recent speech, he urged President Donald Trump to engage in dialogue to forestall potential conflict between the nations.

Maduro's statements came three days after the Trump administration announced that U.S. forces had conducted a strike in the Caribbean, sinking a vessel alleged to be affiliated with the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua, which is accused of drug smuggling towards the U.S. The operation reportedly resulted in the deaths of 11 individuals, prompting skepticism from Caracas regarding the U.S. narrative.

"Venezuela is always ready for dialogue, but we demand respect," Maduro declared at a military base in Caracas. He further asserted, "None of our differences justify a high-impact military conflict in South America."

The recent U.S. military action has stirred unease across Latin America, a region that continues to feel the impact of historical American interventions. In a show of military readiness, Maduro, clad in camouflage, presided over a ceremony in which he ordered the mobilization of civilian militias, stating that there would be an "armed struggle" in the event of an attack.

In response to growing tensions, Washington has deployed over 4,000 troops and naval resources to the Caribbean region, characterizing the move as a measure against drug cartels in Latin America. While U.S. officials have not indicated plans for a ground incursion into Venezuela, Maduro has condemned this military buildup as a threat of invasion.

Additionally, Maduro has accused the U.S. of fabricating drug trafficking allegations to justify efforts aimed at regime change within Venezuela. He emphasized this claim by referencing Washington's recent decision to double its reward for his capture to $50 million. Such narratives have persisted in Venezuelan media as Maduro attempts to garner support amid declining political backing.

The veiled threat of American intervention has historically been a tool for Maduro to bolster his domestic support, using it to unite the nation against perceived external adversaries. As tensions continue to rise, the international community watches closely to see how this situation will unfold.