President Nicolás Maduro sent a message of hope to Venezuelans on Saturday, vowing that “no one will spoil the 2025 Christmas season” as millions poured into the streets for traditional shopping and festivities.

RELATED:

President Maduro Praises Rehabilitation of the Mariche Metrocable

“We can never fail the humble, fighting people who receive the blessings of the Child Jesus,” Maduro said in a video released on social media. “Between parrandas on every corner and the battles we wage for our rights, democracy and peace, we will celebrate these holidays that no one will tarnish.”

The president’s pledge came only 24 hours after Caracas denounced the U.S. military seizure of a private oil tanker in international waters, an act Vice-President Delcy Rodríguez branded “piracy” that included the forced disappearance of the crew.

President Maduro reiterated that Venezuela will file formal complaints before the U.N. Security Council and other international bodies, insisting that “international law will prevail and the perpetrators will be held accountable.”

Despite the stand-off, central Caracas buzzed with Christmas lights, toy markets and drum-led parrandas, underscoring what Maduro called the “dual soul” of the nation: festive culture merged with permanent mobilization to defend sovereignty.

“This is a noble, libertarian people,” he stressed, while predicting “a prosperous 2026 for every Venezuelan family” powered by the country’s 14 development engines and a sovereign hydrocarbons industry.

Authorities say public transport, subsidized food markets and expanded bonus payments will keep holiday crowds moving safely through New Year’s, sending the message that external pressure will not interrupt Venezuela’s traditions or its economic recovery.

From teleSUR English via This RSS Feed.