On January 22, 2025, Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro announced the commencement of military exercises involving approximately 150,000 military and police personnel. This initiative, dubbed the 'Escudo Bolivariano 2025', aims to reinforce national security and sovereignty following allegations of electoral fraud surrounding Maduro's recent re-election.
During a mobilization event at Fuerte Tiuna, Venezuela's largest military complex, Maduro emphasized the need to protect the nation from violence and armed groups originating from Colombia. He stated that the exercises are designed to ensure peace and democracy in Venezuela, which he referred to as 'our beloved Venezuela'.
The military exercises coincide with escalating violence in Colombia, which has resulted in significant displacement of people, some of whom have sought refuge in Venezuela. In response to this situation, Maduro has called for enhanced security along the porous border with Colombia.
Maduro characterized the Escudo Bolivariano as a 'popular, military, and police exercise' aimed at defending key national assets, including borders and cities. He instructed the armed forces to prepare for any potential threats, asserting that the military must be ready to respond decisively to any aggressions.