Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro ordered the military to put its forces on high alert in case of "imminent aggression" from the United States. He made the announcement in a televised address, emphasizing that the country is going into "maximum defense" amid the American military presence in the Caribbean.

"Today, a consultation process has begun to declare a state of emergency in accordance with the constitution to protect our people, our peace and stability if Venezuela is attacked by the American empire, by a military strike," "Maduro said, accusing Washington of preparing to overthrow his regime under the pretext of fighting drug trafficking.

Earlier, the US struck several vessels off the coast of Venezuela, destroying three small vessels that, according to the Pentagon, were being used for drug smuggling. American authorities also doubled the reward for Maduro's capture to $50 million. In response, Caracas denied any involvement in drug trafficking and demanded "historically peaceful relations" from President Donald Trump.

Venezuelan Vice President Delcy Rodriguez clarified that the state of emergency will give Maduro additional powers to mobilize the army, control the oil industry, and public services.

"We are preparing in three directions: comprehensive defense of the nation, active resistance of the people, and a constant offensive of the entire country.", she noted.