Maduro Moves Christmas to October: What is Happening in Venezuela.

Maduro's New Year Promotion

According to The Sun: Christmas Day in Venezuela has been moved three weeks ahead according to the decree of President Nicolas Maduro, who aims to "bring joy" to his people.

Maduro, whose politics and regime have faced criticism numerous times, has ordered the festive season to commence on October 1.

Preconditions for the New Celebration

This is the second consecutive year that Maduro has announced an early Christmas, and overall this is the fourth such decision during his tenure amid threats from the US regarding support for violent drug cartels.

Eleven "narco-terrorists" were killed in the Caribbean Sea during an American strike on a boat leaving Venezuela.

"No one and nothing in this world will take away our right to happiness, life, and joy," Maduro stated in his Christmas message.

This Christmas declaration was made during Maduro's program on the state television channel VTV and was accompanied by songs.

The president, who has become an autocrat, is now under threat from the US since Trump's return to power.

Escalation of Conflict with the US

Unexpectedly, Maduro was described as "one of the biggest drug traffickers in the world and a threat to national security" by Attorney General Pam Bondi.

In August, about 4,500 American troops, including 2,200 Marines, were sent to the region.

During a maritime attack on September 2, Trump stated that the boat was carrying "massive amounts of drugs" and it was linked to the Tren de Aragua gang.

Trump also warned that Venezuelan planes could be "shot down" if they cross into the airspace of American vessels.

This tense situation escalated after Maduro's F-16 flew over an American destroyer twice, prompting Trump to claim that the regime is "in trouble".

Trump has already sent eight American destroyers to the region as part of his operation against drug cartels.

When asked how close the planes came to the ship, Trump replied that he did not want to disclose details but added: "If they put us in a dangerous situation, they will be shot down".

The situation with the USS Jason Dunham has drawn criticism from US officials, who characterized it as "a game of chicken".

In August, the US government announced a reward of up to $50 million for information that could lead to Maduro's arrest.

Additionally, the US accused him of "conspiracy to commit narco-terrorism" and of criminal charges related to cocaine and weapons.

Maduro has been the president of Venezuela since 2013 and undoubtedly declared his victory in the 2018 elections. In January of this year, he was sworn in for a third term.

Since 2019, more than 50 countries have refused to recognize him as the head of state, after the national assembly declared that he usurped power.

Thus, moving Christmas Day earlier is not only an attempt by Maduro to support the people but also a way to divert attention from the crisis situations facing Venezuela and from the growing international pressure. In the face of external threats, it becomes even more important for his power to appear as a strong leader capable of ensuring the well-being of citizens.