On Tuesday, February 3, solidarity groups gathered to support Venezuela’s ongoing protest against US military aggression in the region, particularly demanding the release of President Nicolás Maduro and First Lady Cilia Flores, who were abducted in Caracas on January 3.
The event took place at Serenity Park, Sans Soucis, and featured social activists and representatives from the Saint Lucia-Venezuela Solidarity Movement. This gathering coincided with the first-month anniversary of what Venezuela considers a “vile, illegal, and disproportionate attack.”
A Venezuelan embassy official highlighted that over 100 cities worldwide would hold demonstrations to reject military aggression, advocate for self-determination, and call for the release of Maduro and his wife.
Venezuelan Ambassador Leiff Escalona addressed the crowd, stating, “Everywhere in Venezuela, the people are on the streets defending our sovereignty, democracy, and laws.”
Escalona emphasized the global solidarity the Venezuelan people are receiving, noting that various social movements and jurist associations are studying the case due to what they believe constitutes a violation of Venezuelan sovereignty by the US.
Reflecting on the resilience of the Venezuelan people, the ambassador stated that all citizens are united in support of Acting President Rodriguez as the country navigates diplomatic relations with the United States to enhance economic stability. She also discussed the US military’s prolonged monitoring of Venezuelan waters, citing the deployment of six warships, two submarines, and 1,200 missiles.
Despite these actions, Escalona insisted that the Venezuelan people remain steadfast in their demand for justice and peace.
The ambassador concluded by underscoring the continuous protests across Venezuela, fueled by support from women, youth groups, unions, and workers from various sectors, particularly the oil industry, all calling for the return and release of President Maduro and his wife.