Overview

• Caracas lit up public spaces, including Paseo Los Próceres near Fuerte Tiuna, and shops rolled out holiday goods as the extended season began.
• Vice President Delcy Rodríguez said Maduro signed a decree of external commotion granting special authorities on defense and security.
• The government has urged mobilizations, militia enlistment and military training in response to U.S. naval deployments that Washington describes as counter-narcotics operations.
• The IMF projects 254% inflation this year and the bolívar has lost more than 70% against the dollar, with dollarized prices eroding wages paid in local currency.
• Daily routines such as school, work and public transport continue, though residents report severe loss of purchasing power and persistent service failures.