In Caracas, crowds gathered on Saturday, august 23rd, too enlist in the Venezuelan militia following President nicolás Maduro’s call for reinforcements to defend against perceived threats from the United States.

A CNN crew observed long lines forming in Bolivar Square as individuals sought information on joining the ranks.

The Venezuelan militia, an auxiliary force to the national army, was established by the late former president Hugo Chavez.

“We must continue Chavez’s legacy: fight for the homeland adn the rights of all Venezuelans,” stated Doris Peña, a community agent who signed up on Saturday.

robert Nieves, a teacher, admitted he had never handled a firearm but asserted that “defending the contry is not just about having a gun.”

Maduro’s call to action aims to mobilize 4.5 million militia members nationwide, triggered by the US doubling the reward for information leading to his capture and increasing its military presence in Latin America and the Caribbean.

The US government, under President Donald Trump, has justified these actions as necessary to counter drug trafficking organizations in the region.

Maduro has condemned what he describes as “extravagant, bizarre and absurd threats.” Newly recruited militiamen expressed a shared sentiment that the country is facing a significant threat.

“We defend our people and, in one way or another, let’s defend ourselves,” declared Rogelia Martínez, a social worker, speaking to CNN.

“We defend our people and, in one way or another, let’s defend ourselves,”

Venezuela’s Militia: A Deeper Look