Following Trump’s threat, Maduro changes his sleeping arrangements and reinforces his personal security to an unprecedented degree.
Following Trump’s threat, Maduro changes his sleeping arrangements and reinforces his personal security to an unprecedented degree.
2025-12-04
Shafaq News – Venezuela
Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro faces the most serious challenge of his crisis-ridden years in power, after US President Donald Trump threatened military action against Venezuela.
According to sources close to the Venezuelan government, Maduro has tightened his personal security measures to an unprecedented degree, including regularly changing his sleeping quarters, amid the escalating possibility of US military intervention.
Sources indicated a state of tension and anxiety prevailing in Maduro’s inner circle, despite their belief that he is still in control and capable of overcoming this most serious threat during his twelve years in power, according to the American newspaper, The New York Times.
Seven people close to the Venezuelan government spoke to The New York Times on condition of anonymity, fearing reprisals or not having permission to speak publicly.
Sources explained that Maduro is trying to protect himself from any potential precision strike or special forces operation by constantly changing his sleeping quarters and phone numbers. These precautions have intensified since September, after the United States began deploying warships and conducting strikes against boats that the Trump administration claims were being used to smuggle drugs from Venezuela.
To reduce the risk of infiltration from within the system, Maduro expanded the role of the Cuban bodyguard in his security team and strengthened the presence of Cuban intelligence officers within Venezuelan military institutions, according to what the newspaper quoted from one of the informed sources.
In public, Maduro tried to downplay Washington’s threats by appearing nonchalant and relaxed, suddenly attending public events, dancing in front of cameras, and posting promotional videos on TikTok.
The Trump administration accuses Maduro of leading a “terrorist gang” that floods the United States with drugs, a narrative some officials in Washington say is essentially aimed at regime change in Venezuela. However, Trump has combined military threats with hints of a possible diplomatic solution, speaking with Maduro by phone last month to discuss the possibility of a meeting.
The New York Times reported that Maduro and Trump’s envoys had previously discussed conditions under which the Venezuelan leader might leave the country, but those talks did not result in an agreement, prompting the Trump administration to escalate military pressure.
shafaq.com
