Core Viewpoint - The Venezuelan Defense Minister Lopez condemned the kidnapping attempts against President Maduro and his wife, asserting that the armed forces have initiated measures to safeguard national sovereignty [1] Group 1: Government Actions - The Venezuelan Supreme Court's constitutional court ruled that Vice President Rodriguez will exercise all powers and responsibilities of the presidency in an acting capacity [1] - The armed forces are fully supporting the previously signed "external turmoil order" to ensure governance capabilities [1] Group 2: Military Readiness - The national armed forces have activated a comprehensive state of readiness across all geographical areas to counter imperialist aggression and form a unified front to defend the nation's freedom, independence, and sovereignty [1] - Lopez highlighted that many of Maduro's security personnel have died in U.S. military operations against Venezuela [1]

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the recent military actions taken by the United States against Venezuela, highlighting President Trump's announcement of a secret strike that reportedly reduced drug trafficking by 97% and the potential for further ground operations against drug trafficking in the region [2][3][4]. Group 1: U.S. Military Actions - On December 24, President Trump announced a secret strike by U.S. military forces on a factory in Venezuela, claiming it led to a 97% decrease in drug trafficking [2][3]. - The U.S. Navy's "Ford" aircraft carrier is reportedly controlling the Caribbean, with drug trafficking via sea routes reduced by 96% [4]. - The U.S. has been increasing its military presence in the Caribbean under the guise of anti-drug operations, with significant assets including aircraft and drones deployed near Venezuela [5]. Group 2: Venezuelan Government Response - Venezuelan President Maduro emphasized that the U.S. cannot impose colonialism and slavery on Venezuela, expressing willingness to engage in dialogue based on mutual respect [7][8]. - Maduro criticized the U.S. for fabricating a narrative to justify its actions aimed at seizing Venezuela's natural resources [8]. - Venezuelan officials, including Foreign Minister Ivan Gil, condemned U.S. military actions as threats to regional and global peace, warning against the implications of such aggression [8]. Group 3: Public Sentiment in Venezuela - Recent polls indicate strong opposition among Venezuelans to U.S. military intervention, with 90% against military strikes and 97% opposing the notion that Venezuela's resources belong to the U.S. [9]. - The public sentiment reflects a unified stance against foreign interference and a commitment to national sovereignty, with 92% opposing the threat of a maritime blockade by the U.S. [9].