Edith Perales, a 68-year-old member of Venezuela’s National Bolivarian Militia, is among thousands preparing for potential threats amid increased US military activity in the South Caribbean. Since its founding by former President Hugo Chávez in 2009, the militia has primarily been composed of older volunteers from low-income communities. Following the recent destruction of drug-smuggling boats by the US Navy, Venezuelan officials, including Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino, have labeled the actions as a “non-declared war.”

President Nicolás Maduro has activated the militia for training exercises, encouraging its members to defend their neighborhoods and the country. Many participants, like Perales and other seniors, express unwavering commitment. However, amidst the militia’s drills, daily life appears largely unaffected in areas outside of government strongholds.

Political analysts suggest that the government’s strategy may be to use civilians to increase potential casualties in any US military action, thereby complicating US calculations. Although Maduro claims over 8.2 million enlistees, this figure is contested. For Perales, wearing the militia’s uniform symbolizes a commitment to protect his community, a sentiment echoed by other participants as they engage in basic weapon training.



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