The Venezuelan military consists of the Army, Navy, Air Force, and National Guard, responsible for defending the country's sovereignty and maintaining internal order. It plays a significant role in Venezuela's political landscape, often involved in humanitarian missions and disaster response. The military is also known for its close ties to the government, particularly during the presidency of Hugo Chávez and his successor, Nicolás Maduro. This relationship has led to controversies regarding human rights and the military's involvement in civilian affairs, impacting the overall stability of the nation.