Brasilia: Venezuela's armed forces will not accept any government subservient to the United States, Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino Lopez said during a visit to a military hospital in the capital Caracas. "The Bolivarian National Armed Forces will not allow a government that is kneeling, enslaved, or submissive to U.S. interests," Padrino Lopez stated, according to state broadcaster Venezolana de Television.

According to Namibia Press Agency, Padrino Lopez urged Venezuelans to recall that some opposition leaders have previously advocated for foreign intervention and sanctions against the country. He acknowledged the important role of the opposition in a democracy but warned of threats from U.S. military actions, especially in the Caribbean.

Padrino Lopez criticized recent U.S. military maneuvers near Venezuelan waters, noting that they have intimidated local fishermen. He described the situation as "the greatest threat in a century."

Despite the rising tensions, Lopez reiterated Venezuela's desire to avoid conflict. "We want peace," he emphasized.