The meeting discusses the ongoing challenges and threats faced by Venezuela, including U.S. sanctions, military aggression, and the country’s efforts to defend its sovereignty and resources.

The Truth About Venezuela’s Struggles

Venezuela faces significant challenges due to external pressures and internal efforts to maintain sovereignty and stability.

• The Bolivarian Government is combating 1,042 unilateral coercive measures. ​
• National unity among the people, military, and police is emphasized to defend sovereignty. ​
• The country has faced assassination plots, coup attempts, and threats of military aggression.
• The U.S. is accused of downplaying these threats while militarizing the Caribbean. ​

Economic Blockade Impact on Venezuela

The economic blockade has severely affected Venezuela’s economy and its people. ​

• Over 20 billion USD is frozen in international banks and institutions. ​
• Venezuela has lost an average of 40 billion USD annually since 2015. ​
• Foreign currency revenue plummeted 99%, from 39 billion USD in 2014 to 743 million USD in 2020. ​
• PDVSA’s oil production fell 87% from 2015 to 2020, resulting in 232 billion USD in revenue losses. ​
• Economic losses due to sanctions exceeded 642 billion USD by 2022. ​

U.S. Military Presence and Threats

The U.S. maintains a significant military presence near Venezuela, posing a threat to regional peace. ​

• Approximately 4,000–4,500 U.S. troops are deployed, including 2,200 Marines. ​
• Naval assets include three Arleigh Burke-class destroyers and an amphibious group. ​
• Air components consist of F-35 fighter jets and Boeing P-8 Poseidon aircraft.
• Provocations include detaining Venezuelan fishermen and flying F-35 jets near Venezuelan coasts. ​

Venezuela’s Natural Resources and U.S. Interests

Venezuela’s vast natural resources are a primary target for U.S. interests and military aggression. ​

• Venezuela has the world’s largest oil reserves at 303.8 billion barrels, accounting for 19% of global reserves. ​
• It ranks fourth in natural gas reserves and second in gold reserves. ​
• The Bolivarian Revolution prioritized national control over resources, ending privatization. ​
• U.S. intentions to seize resources have been openly stated, with Trump mentioning taking Venezuela’s oil. ​

Venezuela’s Anti-Drug Trafficking Efforts

Venezuela has made significant strides in combating drug trafficking, countering U.S. narratives. ​

• The UNODC reports that Venezuela is free of illicit crops and not a key player in drug trafficking. ​
• 70% of cocaine leaving Venezuela is seized by authorities.
• Since the expulsion of the DEA in 2005, drug seizures increased by 44%, with over 170 cartel leaders arrested. ​

Venezuela’s Call for Peace and Sovereignty

Venezuela demands an end to external aggression and reaffirms its commitment to sovereignty. ​

• The country highlights the false narratives used to justify military threats.
• Venezuela emphasizes its rights under the UN Charter to defend its sovereignty and peace. ​

Historical Context of Aggression Against Venezuela

A timeline of aggression against Venezuela illustrates ongoing external pressures and internal challenges.

• Key events include the 2002 coup, oil sabotage, and various violent protests. ​
• The U.S. declared Venezuela a threat in 2015, leading to sanctions and increased violence. ​
• Venezuela has held 33 elections in 26 years, showcasing its commitment to democratic participation. ​

Economic Recovery and Growth in Venezuela

Venezuela is experiencing a recovery process despite the ongoing blockade and sanctions. ​

• The country has recorded 17 consecutive quarters of economic growth. ​
• Economic growth rates include 5% in 2021, 12% in 2022, and 6.2% in the first half of 2025.
• The recovery is attributed to collective national efforts and strategic international alliances.