Diosdado Cabello Reports 52.7 Tons Drug Seizures, Accuses Rubio and Machado of Destabilization and Terrorist Plots

Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro affirmed a firm stance against external threats, emphasizing that Venezuela will no longer tolerate foreign pressure or intimidation. Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello reported that Venezuela has seized 52.7 tons of drugs in 2025 and dismantled several drug trafficking operations. Cabello stated that the government neither underestimates nor overestimates threats and is always prepared to face challenges. He accused U.S. Senator Marco Rubio of pressuring regional governments to destabilize the Caribbean and criticized opposition figures María Corina Machado and Simonovis for allegedly preparing new terrorist actions targeting cities including Caracas, Valencia, Maracaibo, and Guárico, with plans to attack a military base. Cabello also highlighted ongoing efforts by Machado to fund campaigns aimed at undermining the ruling chavismo and dividing the Venezuelan Armed Forces (FANB). Additionally, former UN Anti-Drug Program director Pino Arlacchi recognized Venezuela as one of the most cooperative Latin American countries in the fight against narcotics. Separately, Venezuelan authorities announced a "precise strike" against drug trafficking with the recent seizure of three tons of narcotics.