On December 31, 2025, local time, Venezuelan Defense Minister López delivered a speech calling on the country’s armed forces to remain on standby to respond to any potential military aggression. López stated that Venezuelan military personnel must maintain a state of readiness to respond to military aggression of any nature or intensity should the need arise. López declared that Venezuela would never allow itself to be dominated by any superpower and stood ready at all times to fight for the nation and its dignity.