Venezuela Prepares Guerrilla Resistance Amid Rising U.S. Military Tensions

Venezuela is reportedly preparing for a potential U.S. attack by deploying decades-old Russian-made weapons and developing guerrilla-style defense plans, according to sources and defense documents reviewed by Reuters. The strategy reflects the South American nation’s lack of military capacity and outdated equipment as it braces for possible confrontation.

Amid increasing U.S. military activity in the Caribbean, President Donald Trump hinted at potential ground operations, though he later denied plans for direct strikes on Venezuela. President Nicolás Maduro, in power since 2013, has accused Washington of seeking regime change and vowed national resistance.

Venezuela’s military, weakened by poor training, low pay, and aging equipment, struggles to sustain its forces. Some commanders reportedly negotiate with local producers to feed troops, and rank-and-file soldiers earn about $100 monthly—well below the cost of living. Despite official claims of readiness, insiders admit the military is “not prepared” for conflict with the U.S.

Maduro’s government is pursuing two defense tactics: a guerrilla campaign called “prolonged resistance,” involving sabotage operations from over 280 sites, and an “anarchization” plan aimed at creating chaos through intelligence operatives and armed supporters to make Venezuela ungovernable. Analysts say both strategies are designed to deter intervention by emphasizing instability.

Venezuela’s arsenal, including Sukhoi fighter jets, tanks, and Igla missiles, is largely outdated. While Maduro claims to have deployed thousands of portable missile systems nationwide, experts note these weapons offer limited deterrence against advanced U.S. forces.

Defense experts believe Maduro’s public military displays are intended less to demonstrate strength and more to signal that any foreign invasion could unleash widespread chaos, potentially empowering guerrilla or criminal groups. The strategy underscores Venezuela’s focus on deterrence through instability rather than conventional defense capabilities.