Maduro Rejects Interference, Backs Peace, Unity, Defense Readiness

Caracas, Venezuela- President Nicolás Maduro has reiterated Venezuela’s dedication to peaceful diplomacy while firmly rejecting any foreign meddling in its domestic affairs.

Speaking at a press conference in Caracas, Maduro stressed that Venezuela engages in open diplomatic dialogue with all nations, regardless of political disagreements.

He pointed to the dissolution of the Lima Group, once a coalition of nearly 30 countries formed to diplomatically isolate Venezuela-calling it “defunct” and framing its collapse as both a victory for Venezuelan diplomacy and a regional rejection of interventionist agendas.

Turning to the United States, Maduro claimed that while bilateral dialogue has always existed, Washington is now using it for political maneuvering. He urged U.S. leaders to honor regional agreements such as the Treaty of Tlatelolco, which bans nuclear weapons in Latin America and the Caribbean.

“The Caribbean wants peace and rejects foreign interference,” Maduro said, adding that regional nations support Venezuela’s defense of its sovereignty and territorial integrity.

In a sharp rebuke, he accused Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa of being “a puppet of the North American empire,” alleging that Noboa fails to represent the dignity and true interests of the Ecuadorian people. He also claimed that U.S. Senator Marco Rubio should recognize supposed ties between the Noboa family’s businesses and cocaine trafficking into Europe—an accusation that remains unverified.

On defense, Maduro emphasized that the Bolivarian National Armed Forces (FANB) are “fully trained and ready” to defend the nation, warning that any attack on Venezuela would trigger armed resistance.

“We will never be colonies or slaves of anyone. We will fight to protect our independence,” he asserted.

Despite the strong words, Maduro reiterated that Venezuela is a peace-loving country, but one that stays vigilant in protecting its sovereignty. He also confirmed that Venezuela and Colombia have reached agreements to maintain stability and foster cooperation along their shared border, prioritizing mutual peace and development.