The recent cases of desertion and disciplinary actions within the Bolivarian Army highlight a clear collapse and deep crisis of morale and discipline among lower-ranking personnel. The latest incident involves the arrest of Lieutenant Reynier José Romero González, C.I. V-26.034.XXX, assigned to the 102 Pedro Estevan Gómez, who was apprehended on Tuesday, April 2, 2025, by a Military Police unit. He was transferred to the Detention Center of the 35th Military Police Brigade, charged with desertion, disobedience, and abandonment of duty.
This arrest adds to a series of unexcused absences from other military personnel:
First Lieutenant Maximiliano José Volcanes Zamora (V-2X.068.XXX), deserter not captured.
Sergeant First Class Wilmer Alfonso Hernández Segura (V-2X.498.XXX), who also failed to respond to the summons.
Second Sergeant Ana Esperanza Ramírez Reira (V-2X.783.XXX), likewise absent.
The repeated refusal of these soldiers to present themselves indicates a break in the chain of command and a growing rejection of continuing to serve a regime that has lost legitimacy even within its own military apparatus.
These signs combine to create an alarming diagnosis: a deeply deteriorated military morale, reflected in the increasing number of casualties, desertions, sanctions, illnesses, and even torture of detained personnel. Many of these lower-ranking officials are not only dissatisfied with internal conditions but also with electoral fraud and the manipulation of power by Nicolás Maduro.
In a desperate response, the regime has started to force and summon former officers from past promotions, a clear indication that current ranks are neither sufficient nor reliable to maintain internal repression or any defense attempts in potential transition scenarios.
This situation exposes not only the structural fragility of the regime’s military apparatus but also shows that the “military factor” is not being adequately addressed by the democratic opposition forces. Many military personnel voted for change, but there is no strong public message that calls them or motivates them. An urgent dual approach is needed:
Grassroots and discreet work, directly engaging middle and lower ranks, those who currently feel abandoned.
Public discourse aimed at the military sector, recognizing their historical role and inviting them to actively participate in the democratic reconstruction of the country.
The time is now. The fracture has already begun. History does not wait.