In the capital city, the people’s desire for social stability amidst the uncertainties of potential war escalation is evident. Photography: Luis Silvera / Guacamaya.
Guacamaya, November 22, 2025. In their daily activities, the Venezuelan population remains vigilant amid rising tensions. Recently, U.S. President Donald Trump reiterated that military actions in Venezuela are not off the table “to resolve the problem” that the country presents. He made this statement after accusing Nicolás Maduro’s government of sending “the worst criminals” to U.S. soil.
Meanwhile, the State Department announced the classification of the Cartel of the Suns, associated with Maduro, as a Foreign Terrorist Organization. This classification, as suggested by Trump, allows the U.S. military the ability to target the Venezuelan leader’s assets and infrastructure within the country’s borders.
Although Trump has stated recently that there might be discussions with Maduro, his administration continues to maintain a robust military presence in the Caribbean as a form of pressure. Just days ago, the world’s largest warship, the USS Gerald R. Ford, joined the operation, and it was reported that five military aircraft had overflown close to the Venezuelan coast.
In response, the Venezuelan armed forces have conducted extensive military drills nationwide, includingthe mobilization of 200,000 troops, positioning themselves against what they deem “imperial threats.” Additionally, the National Assembly approved the Law of the Command for the Integral Defense of the Nation, which has raised concerns even among moderate opposition leaders due to its implications.
The Venezuelan government is anticipating possible disruptive actions or “internal sabotage” that could undermine perceived stability, heightening tensions further. Despite this complicated scenario, life in Caracas suggests a façade of social and cultural normalcy, igniting debate between indifference and uncertainty.
The image of Caracas in times of tension and crisis
The Old School Reggaeton concert gathered a crowd of over 55,000 at the Simón Bolívar Monumental Stadium in Caracas, marking record attendance for the venue. Photo: Simón Bolívar Monumental Stadium.
Recent events across the capital reflect vibrancy and, in some instances, hope for a brighter future, regardless of who leads the nation. The populace demonstrates resilience while still embracing leisure and cultural expressions, with a calendar filled with both economic and artistic ventures.
On the economic side, the Startup Venezuela Summit 2025 just took place, connecting and promoting local entrepreneurship with participation from over 50 speakers both national and international. Contextually, Venezuela ranks among the top 10 countries globally for entrepreneurship, per data supported by the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM).
Culturally, the city hosted the 9th edition of the “Nocturneando” festival in Chacao, attracting more than 50,000 attendees, surpassing the mayor’s office expectations of 30,000 to 40,000 people. The festival featured music, art, gastronomy, and urban activities, illustrating a Caracas that maintains its cultural vibrancy.
Additionally, last weekend, the Simón Bolívar Monumental Stadium was the venue for the Old School Reggaeton concert, achieving a record turnout of 55,000 attendees. The lineup included renowned artists such as Ivy Queen, Tito El Bambino, Alexis & Fido, and Baby Rasta & Gringo, further emphasizing the success of large-scale events even during crises.
Citizens display indifference and carelessness
The Guacamaya team engaged with several residents to gather their thoughts and expectations regarding the U.S. military deployment. Photo: Luis Silvera / Guacamaya.
The apparent normalcy and vibrancy in the Venezuelan capital starkly contrast with increasing political and military tensions. Guacamaya set out to gauge public sentiment, which generally indicates a degree of indifference towards the escalation, as many feel their political future is beyond their direct influence.
Carolina, a 60-year-old informal vendor, expressed optimism about the U.S. military deployment, despite lacking clarity on its impacts. “I believe that with this, Venezuela will be free. We are going to have freedom. Maduro is already under a lot of pressure,” she said. When asked about her preparedness for a potential conflict, she emphasized the need to “stock up on food and maintain faith.”
Contrastingly, David, a 52-year-old farmer from Colonia Tovar, stated he does not want war, although he disagrees with the Venezuelan government. “Clearly, nobody wants war; we desire peace. I am not a Maduro supporter but the homeland is the homeland, and I would stand against them, despite my views,” he remarked.
David also pointed out that those in positions of power benefit from these conflicts. “U.S. politics thrives on weaponry, createing wealth for whoever occupies the presidency. The same applies here. Moving troops generates cash. Who is profiting? They (the presidents) and those behind the scenes,” he explained.
Younger voices shared their perspectives too. Diego, 24, who works in a supermarket, dismissed the idea that U.S. military maneuvers would lead to political change in the country. “If the United States truly wanted to intervene, they would have done so already. They engage in wars and would have attacked by now,” he stated.
The young man remains skeptical about political changes arising from governmental pressure. “I have strong faith in God, and I believe He won’t allow chaos here. I don’t foresee a change in the political landscape,” he said. He also expressed doubts about the accusations regarding attacks on boats in the Caribbean. “Those reasons may be misleading or true, but the attacks aren’t justifiable,” he added.
Despite social unrest, residents resist extremism and maintain their daily routines. Photography: Luis Silvera / Guacamaya.
Dalibeth, a 34-year-old housewife, believes the military pressure could inspire political change. “If this prompts a shift, that would be positive, as it could bring development akin to that seen in other countries,” she stated. She senses fear within the government: “When you’re afraid, you create stories, and that’s what they’ve been doing.”
Regarding the armed actions in the Caribbean and the Pacific against vessels allegedly involved in drug trafficking, she added that interpretations may vary from person to person. “That’s allowing ourselves to be swayed by personal biases. No one should die over any issue. If they’re guilty, they should be arrested, not killed,” she urged.
Over the years, Venezuelans have witnessed promises of imminent political changes come and go without results. In 2021, then-Secretary of State Mike Pompeo declared that “Maduro’s days are numbered,” a sentiment echoed four years later by various Republican figures, including Senator Rick Scott and Trump himself.
In general, those consulted have not made plans for a potential armed conflict between the United States and Venezuela; however, they all agree on the necessity to stockpile food and find shelter. The persistent threats with no tangible outcome seem to have led to a sense of resignation and collective skepticism.
The political contrast: internal actors, pressures, and openings
In a video shared on her social networks, María Corina Machado declared that she remains in hiding and asserted that “the people will rise” with freedom as their goal. Photo: Screenshot / @mariacorinamachado
Amidst this situation, rumors circulated that María Corina Machado, following recognition with the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize, had left the country to receive the award from the Norwegian Nobel Committee. However, Machado denied these claims, stating she could only accept the award in Oslo if Nicolás Maduro relinquishes power.
The leader, who garners significant popular support, asserts that she remains hidden. In response to the rumors, the Attorney General Tarek William Saab warned that Machado will be labeled a fugitive if she departs from Venezuela due to ongoing investigations for conspiracy, terrorism, and incitement, along with her “calls for invasion.”
Moderate opposition figures such as Stalin González and Henrique Capriles Radonski have intensified their critiques of the national administration. Stalin stated that the new law approved by the National Assembly grants the Executive a “blank check to act under the pretense of ‘national defense.’” Meanwhile, Capriles questioned whether Maduro’s so-called diplomacy could lead to a “political solution.”
Both leaders, while opposing the military actions endorsed by the U.S. that risk escalating conflict, also direct blame towards the government for its tactics and reactions. The leaders, soon to be inaugurated as deputies, are advocating for a “political and negotiated solution” to prevent a “spiral of confrontation.”
As the State Department announces the designation of the Cartel of the Suns, associated with Maduro and high-ranking military officials, as a foreign terrorist organization, Trump has reiterated potential openings for dialogue with the Venezuelan president. This mix of sanctions and opportunities for negotiations fuels further uncertainty.
Through social media, Capriles addressed the expectations surrounding Donald Trump’s recent comments regarding the possibility of conversations with Nicolás Maduro. Photo: Screenshot / @hcapriles
Caracas, mirroring the broader nation, stands on a fragile tightrope between the looming threat of U.S. military involvement and Maduro’s uncertain reaction with mass drills and troop mobilizations. Yet, the community continues to uphold a routine life that reflects a blend of normalcy, resilience, skepticism, and adaptability.
The reality is that Venezuelans feel increasingly detached from their daily actions, relying more on strategic maneuvers of global powers and national political entities. Although the present situation might dictate Venezuela’s immediate future, its internal social dynamics appear unaffected by external geopolitical stresses and pressures.