During the presentation of the report on Operación República (Operation Republic) 2025 (Electoral Military Safety Device), the Minister of People’s Power for Defense, Vladimir Padrino López, warned about actions by foreign powers seeking to affect the electoral process on July 27. He denounced the use of aircraft that violate the operational space of the Bolivarian National Armed Forces (FANB) and the country’s sovereignty.
He revealed that a US Air Force RC-135 intelligence aircraft was detected approximately 80 miles north of the La Orchila island: «This is a spy plane that, although unusual, filed a flight plan—something they don’t usually do, since they disown any international authority,» explained the also Sectoral Vice President for Defense and Sovereignty.
Likewise, he reiterated Venezuela’s rejection of these practices: «We condemn the imperialist and supremacist attitude of the United States, which disowns the global norms and international law regarding air safety in our region.»