Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has accused the United States of “fabricating war” and attempting to provoke conflict in Latin America following Washington’s recent deployment of the world’s largest warship in the region.

Speaking during a televised address, Maduro claimed that the U.S. military presence near Venezuelan waters represents a threat to peace and sovereignty. “The empire is once again trying to bring war to our region,” he said, referring to the U.S. as he urged Latin American nations to unite against what he described as “imperialist aggression.”

The remarks come shortly after the U.S. Navy confirmed the deployment of its largest aircraft carrier, reportedly the USS Gerald R. Ford, to participate in “routine maritime security operations.” However, observers view the move as a strategic show of power amid growing tensions over Venezuela’s political and economic crisis, and the country’s closer ties with Russia, China, and Iran.

Maduro accused Washington of using “military intimidation” to destabilize his government and pressure Caracas over its alliances and energy deals. “They invent conflicts to justify their presence and control our resources,” he alleged, echoing long-standing Venezuelan criticisms of U.S. foreign policy.

Relations between the U.S. and Venezuela have been strained for years, particularly since Washington imposed sanctions on Caracas over alleged human rights abuses and election irregularities. The Biden administration has maintained a cautious approach, balancing sanctions with limited diplomatic engagement aimed at encouraging democratic reforms.

International analysts note that the U.S. warship deployment also coincides with heightened global military movements — particularly in the Caribbean and South Atlantic — as part of broader geopolitical positioning. Experts believe the move sends a signal not only to Venezuela but also to China and Russia, both of which have expanded their influence in Latin America through trade, defense, and energy partnerships.

Maduro’s comments were met with mixed reactions domestically. Supporters of the Venezuelan government rallied behind his statements, while opposition leaders accused him of using “anti-American rhetoric” to distract from Venezuela’s deep economic and humanitarian crises.

Meanwhile, the U.S. State Department dismissed Maduro’s claims, calling the warship’s deployment “routine and transparent.” Officials reiterated that the U.S. remains committed to “maintaining peace, freedom of navigation, and regional stability.”

The situation highlights the growing strategic competition in Latin America, where the U.S., China, and Russia are vying for influence through military, economic, and diplomatic means. Analysts warn that unless dialogue resumes, the rhetoric on both sides could further escalate regional tensions.