Overview

• The decree, described as “external agitation,” authorizes nationwide troop deployments and state control of strategic infrastructure, including hydrocarbons and public services.
• Officials say it permits mobilization of civilian militias and allows border closures to protect territorial integrity.
• U.S. naval forces have operated near Venezuela since late August and have sunk several boats they said were carrying illegal drugs.
• The Trump administration frames the missions as counter-narcotics and alleges trafficking networks are linked to Maduro’s government.
• Venezuela is training and mobilizing the Popular Militia across the country, and a separate two-month economic emergency declared on August 8 remains in effect.