Comrades, sisters and brothers:
Venezuela today stands at a decisive crossroads. For more than two decades, our people have faced an economic war imposed from abroad, relentless geopolitical pressure to seize our mineral wealth, and constant attempts to dismantle our Revolution.
Since 1999, with Commander Hugo Chávez, the Bolivarian Revolution set out clear goals: reclaim control of our strategic resources, reduce inequality, and build Latin American integration as a pole of sovereignty and development. That project turned Venezuela into a beacon of hope for millions across the world.
But imperialism did not stand idle. Our oil dependent economy was deliberately attacked: first through the flooding of markets with artificially cheap shale oil, then through illegal unilateral coercive measures designed to strangle our financial system and break our people’s will. Yet Venezuela did not collapse. Our people resisted, reinvented themselves, and proved that creativity and solidarity are stronger than sanctions.
On January 3 of this year, faced with the harshest scenario, Venezuela chose the path of defending its territorial integrity and the wellbeing of its people. Our government explores negotiations, yes-but always under the principle of sovereignty and self-determination. Let it be clear: Negotiating does not mean surrendering. Negotiating means surviving, resisting, and defending who we are.
History teaches us that revolutions do not advance in straight lines. At historic crossroads, continuity is not guaranteed by rigidity, but by the ability to adapt and endure. Venezuela today makes difficult choices, but always with the conviction of preserving independence and the social project born from the will of its people.
We know there are many interpretations of our reality, inside and outside the country. But beyond opinions, one truth remains: Venezuelans are a people in struggle, determined to decide their own destiny. And so we say with clarity and strength:
Venezuela does not surrender!
Hands off Venezuela!
No more sanctions!
Respect the sovereignty of the peoples!
Comrades, Venezuela is a nation ready to dialogue, to cooperate, but above all, to resist imperialism and to build a world of peace, justice, and dignity.
Long live the Bolivarian Revolution!
Long live the solidarity of the peoples!
Thank you.
