Wilder Fernández, a fisherman from Venezuela, shares his growing apprehension about his daily work. After 13 years at sea, the perceived threat from U.S. military operations in the Caribbean has turned his livelihood into a source of fear. The deployment of warships, fighter jets, and troops, part of an operation targeting suspected “narco-terrorists” with alleged ties to the Venezuelan government, has created a climate of unease.
Recent U.S. strikes against alleged “narco-boats” have resulted in at least 27 fatalities, though the U.S. has yet to provide evidence for these claims. These actions have escalated tensions, with President Donald Trump reportedly considering strikes within Venezuela and authorizing covert CIA operations. Experts have also raised questions about the legality of these strikes under international law.
Fernández’s wife urges him to find a different job, but he feels trapped by his circumstances. “She tells me to look for another job, but there’s nowhere to go,” he laments, worried about the potential for his boat to be hit “by mistake.” This sentiment is shared by many in the fishing community, where fear of becoming collateral damage is palpable.
Jennifer Nava, a spokeswoman for the Council of Fishermen in El Bajo, highlights that these new risks could push desperate fishermen towards smugglers, further complicating the already challenging fishing industry. The economic downturn in fishing exacerbates this vulnerability.
Despite the fear, a sense of defiance is also present. Hundreds of fishermen participated in a recent demonstration on Lake Maracaibo, supporting the government and protesting the U.S. military presence. José Luzardo, a veteran fisherman and spokesman for the El Bajo fishermen, expresses his unwavering loyalty and readiness to defend his homeland, stating, “If they [the US] want to kill us, then so be it, but we’re not afraid.” This sentiment underscores the deep-seated patriotism and resistance many Venezuelans feel amidst the escalating situation.
The Venezuelan government has mobilized its militia, with over 16,000 fishermen reportedly joining the civilian force. The fishermen’s primary desire, according to Luzardo, is for “peace and work,” not war, yet they feel threatened by what they perceive as a “military barrier” in the Caribbean.