Venezuela’s military is preparing for potential conflict with the United States by adopting guerrilla strategies. This comes in response to the country’s deficiencies in personnel and outdated equipment. Recent analysis shows that the Venezuelan military intends to employ tactics involving sabotage and create chaos in urban areas.
Military Strategy in Venezuela
Amid rising tensions, the Venezuelan government is exploring options for a guerrilla-style resistance. These preparations reflect concerns about insufficient military capabilities. Venezuela’s armed forces are reportedly using aging Soviet-era weaponry and equipment.
Potential US Conflict
U.S. President Donald Trump has previously hinted at ground operations in Venezuela. Despite denying any firm plans for strikes, his administration’s military build-up in the region has raised alarms. Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has vowed that his government and citizens will resist any U.S. attempts to overthrow his administration.
Military Conditions
- Low morale due to insufficient wages: Soldiers earn approximately $100 monthly.
- Outdated equipment: Much of the military hardware is decades old.
- Concerns of desertions: Poor working conditions may lead to increased desertions.
Reports indicate that soldiers face dire circumstances, including negotiating with local food suppliers due to government shortages. High-ranking officials in Venezuela have outlined a two-pronged strategy for defense. This includes guerrilla tactics and a separate approach termed “anarchization,” aimed at causing disorder to complicate foreign military operations.
Military Readiness and Capabilities
Venezuelan military capabilities are hampered by outdated technology, primarily Russian-made equipment such as Sukhoi fighter jets and Igla missiles. Though significant in quantity, the effectiveness of these assets is questionable compared to U.S. military technology.
Guerrilla Warfare Tactics
The strategy of “prolonged resistance” will reportedly involve small units stationed at over 280 locations. These units will engage in guerrilla tactics to undermine any foreign military efforts. Additionally, there’s talk of employing civilian militias, with Maduro claiming millions are ready to defend the nation.
However, analysts caution that the likelihood of success against a superior military force remains slim. Acknowledging their limitations, sources within the military have expressed doubts about their readiness for a conventional confrontation.
Regional Implications
Venezuela’s military preparations occur in a broader context of regional instability. The potential for U.S. intervention raises concern among neighboring countries. The Venezuelan government has consistently denied accusations of involvement in drug trafficking, despite ongoing scrutiny from opposition groups and international observers.
Through public displays of military readiness, Maduro aims to project strength. Analysts suggest this strategy also serves as a warning about the potential consequences of foreign intervention, namely increased violence and chaos.
In summary, Venezuela is bracing for possible confrontation by adopting guerrilla tactics and preparing its military, despite facing significant operational challenges.
