Venezuela started a new round of nationwide conscription registration for its militia on Friday, with residents gathering on the streets to protest the recent U.S. deployment of military forces in the Caribbean. Earlier this month, Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro said he had decided to mobilize 4.5 million civilian militia members nationwide to thwart U.S. threats of war against his country.
Venezuela's Defense Minister has accused the U.S. of trying to justify military actions in the Caribbean under the pretext of fighting drug trafficking.
More than 1,000 militia mobilization points have been set up across the country as part of the latest drive, with about 100 in the capital Caracas alone.
Protesters who took to the streets expressed their determination to defend their country and oppose the military threat posed by the United States.
"[We're here] essentially for the defense of the homeland. We never allow foreign boots to trample us; we are willing to defend it, and we are here to make our presence felt," said Cruz Martinez, a local resident.
"Here we are supporting, training and preparing to defend our sovereignty, freedom and independence when necessary," said Sheila Martinez, a member of the Venezuelan militia.
The militia is a part of Venezuela's national defense system, which encourages civilian participation in military-style organization and training.
Venezuela starts new round of militia mobilization amid protests against US
