In a bold response to escalating tensions with the United States, Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has announced the deployment of over 5,000 Russian-made Igla-S anti-aircraft missiles across the nation. Maduro emphasized that these short-range weapons, capable of targeting drones, helicopters, and low-flying aircraft, have been strategically positioned in “every mountain, town, and city” to fortify Venezuela’s air defenses. This move comes amid heightened U.S. military presence in the Caribbean, where approximately 4,500 Marines and sailors have been stationed to combat alleged drug-trafficking networks. U.S. President Donald Trump has acknowledged authorizing covert CIA operations in Venezuela and hinted at potential land-based military actions. Despite the growing friction, Trump has denied pursuing a regime change in Venezuela. The situation underscores the deepening geopolitical rift between the two nations, with Maduro framing the missile deployment as a necessary shield against external aggression.