Venezuela swears in 5,600 troops amid US military build-up
What's the story
Venezuela has sworn in 5,600 new soldiers as tensions with the United States escalate. The recruitment drive was launched by President Nicolas Maduro after the US deployed a fleet of warships, including the world's largest aircraft carrier, to the Caribbean. The US claims its military presence is aimed at combating drug trafficking and conducted strikes on at least 22 vessels, killing over 80 people.
Accusations
US accuses Maduro of leading terrorist organization
The United States has accused Maduro of heading the alleged Cartel of the Suns, which it designated a terrorist organization last month. In response to these developments, Colonel Gabriel Alejandro Rendon Vilchez said during the swearing-in ceremony at Fuerte Tiuna in Caracas that Venezuela will not tolerate an invasion by an "imperialist force" under any circumstances.
Oil accusation
Maduro accuses US of attempting to seize Venezuela's oil
Maduro has accused the United States of trying to overthrow his government and take control of Venezuela's oil reserves. He called the military maneuvers in the Caribbean an "illegal, disproportionate, unnecessary and even extravagant" act of aggression. According to official figures, Venezuela has as many as 200,000 troops and an additional 200,000 police officers.
International response
Turkey expresses concern over Venezuela's situation
Amid the tension, Maduro talked with his Turkish counterpart, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, over the phone, who expressed concern over the threats facing Venezuela. Maduro said the actions in the Caribbean constitute an "illegal, disproportionate, unnecessary and even extravagant" act of aggression, stating Venezuela will continue working for peace. Erdogan said, "It is important to keep channels of dialogue open between the US and Venezuela," hoping for a quick resolution to tensions.