Venezuela's Military Uncertainty Amid Presidential Elections

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro is striving to maintain military loyalty ahead of a contentious election. Checkpoints and military presence are rampant, aiming to intimidate government critics. However, discontent within the ranks and economic woes have made it challenging to secure unwavering support from the armed forces.

At a crossroads not far from a gas station overgrown with weeds, young men and women in faded green fatigues stop vehicles returning from a rally for opponents of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, ask passengers for their identifications, and inspect their cars, trucks, and motorcycles.

Such checkpoints have proliferated across the country in the run-up to Sunday's presidential election, aiming to intimidate and occasionally detain government critics. The troops often ask for a ride, bananas, or small bribes in return for safe passage.

Despite these efforts, dissatisfaction among the rank and file is palpable. As Venezuela's economy continues to suffer, the benefits for military families have lost their appeal, leading to increased desertion. Former officials suggest that disobedience, rather than rebellion, may undermine Maduro's control.

(With inputs from agencies.)