• Venezuelan President Maduro is ready to declare a state of emergency over US military actions.
• The decree allows expanded military powers to combat perceived US aggression.
• Recent US strikes have killed Venezuelans, prompting accusations of "extrajudicial execution."

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro announced his readiness to declare a state of emergency due to the threat posed by US "aggression," particularly following a series of US military strikes on suspected drug trafficking boats from Venezuela. The President stated, “Today the consultation process began...to declare a state of emergency...to protect our people, our peace, and our stability” in response to these threats, according to SCMP and Al Jazeera.

In concert with these announcements, Vice-President Delcy Rodriguez indicated that Maduro signed a decree granting him expanded security powers, enabling the mobilization of military forces across the country and granting them authority over public services and the oil industry. This decree is expected to remain valid for 90 days, with a potential extension, according to TRT Global and CBS News.

The situation has escalated with the deployment of eight US warships and a nuclear-powered submarine to the Caribbean, under the pretext of combating drug trafficking, but perceived by Maduro's administration as a direct threat to Venezuela. US military forces have reportedly targeted and destroyed boats linked to drug trafficking, resulting in significant casualties, which Maduro characterized as “extrajudicial execution,” reflecting further tensions in the region, as noted by India Times and Latin America Reports.

As Maduro navigates this crisis, he maintains that US military maneuvers are an intimidation tactic aimed at destabilizing the region. Claims from his administration suggest that past and current US actions have primarily been to undermine his government amidst ongoing sanctions and isolation. The decree to declare a state of emergency would allow for sweeping powers, including the potential requisition of private property, further entrenching military control during this period of heightened tension, according to Al Jazeera and SCMP.