'Fleet with missiles aimed at…': Venezuela's warning after seeking Russia, China help against USA

Venezuelan Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino defended the nation’s democracy during a speech in Aragua, rejecting external pressures and the neoliberal model promoted by “North American imperialism.” Padrino framed the country’s defense as both spiritual and military, noting the canonisation of Jose Gregorio Hernandez and Carmen Rendiles as new saints for Venezuela. Addressing recent US military activity—including the deployment of the USS Gravely and Marine exercises in Trinidad—he highlighted the country’s resolve to face external threats and maintain unity, underscoring the armed forces’ readiness and ongoing anti-imperialist stance.