Venezuela has appointed Carlos Martínez Mendoza, its ambassador to Colombia, as a General of Division in the National Bolivarian Armed Forces in a reserve active status. This appointment was announced by President Nicolás Maduro amid a broader military deployment by Venezuela along its border with Colombia. The deployment coincides with increased U.S. military activity in the Caribbean region. Venezuelan authorities have activated the Peace Zone Number 1 between the states of Zulia and Táchira, which border Colombia, as part of this military reinforcement. The move reflects Venezuela's efforts to strengthen its military presence on the Colombian border amid regional tensions.