(250901) -- CARACAS, Sept. 1, 2025 (Xinhua) -- Venezuelan Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino Lopez (L) speaks during a press conference held in Caracas, Venezuela, Aug. 31, 2025. Venezuela is prepared for "any attack" from the United States, Venezuelan Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino Lopez said on Sunday.

Venezuela is under a siege that aims to provoke internal chaos and undermine the nation's political leadership, said the defense chief. (Photo by Marcos Salgado/Xinhua)