Venezuela’s Defense Minister: We Are Ready to Respond to Any Aggression

According to the English section of webangah News Agency, citing Mehr News Agency and Al Masirah, Venezuelan Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino López stated that their forces are prepared to respond to any aggression targeting Venezuela or undermining its sovereignty and territorial integrity.
He added that the Venezuelan Air Force is fully aware of its duties and will strike powerfully wherever necessary.
Addressing Venezuela’s adversaries,the defense minister warned: “Do not make the mistake of attacking or attempting to attack Venezuela; as the Venezuelan people and armed forces remain on high alert to defend their country’s sovereignty.”
Last Saturday, U.S. officials announced that they are ready to begin a new phase of military operations against Venezuela in the coming days.
Meanwhile, some U.S. government sources informed Axios that President Donald Trump has told his advisors he intends to engage in direct talks with venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro.
The sources claimed Trump’s decision marks a significant shift toward aggressive diplomacy with Venezuela and could indicate that immediate attacks or direct military action by the United States against Caracas are unlikely at this time.

