Venezuelan Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino Lopez said on Thursday that the Venezuelan military had detected five US fighter jets flying near Venezuela’s coast, a provocation that comes amid reports that the US is considering bombing the country. “Venezuela’s integrated air defense system detected more than five aircraft with flight characteristics of 400 knots and flying at an altitude of 35,000 feet within the Maiquetía region. These are combat aircraft that US imperialism has dared to bring close to Venezuelan shores,” Padrino said, according to El País. Padrino condemned the US flight near Venezuela as a “provocation” and “a major threat against the nation’s security.” He also warned the US against attacking the country, saying Venezuela will launch a “national mobilization” in response. “Do not make the mistake of militarily attacking Venezuela.