Maduro calls for calm after new blackout and electrical crisis in Venezuela.

President Nicolás Maduro has called on citizens to maintain "calm" following what he has described as a new "criminal attack" on the national electrical system, which caused a blackout that began at 4:50 PM local time this Friday. In a message broadcast via Telegram, Maduro reaffirmed his commitment to the people, stating that he is at the forefront of the situation and demanding "nerves of steel" from his compatriots in the face of this crisis. The situation arises in a tense political context, as the country is undergoing an institutional crisis marked by Maduro's declaration as the winner of elections whose results have yet to be fully disclosed. This proclamation has been criticized by the opposition, which alleges possible electoral fraud. The political party leading the opposition, the Democratic Unitary Platform (PUD), has insisted that the victory should belong to their candidate, González Urrutia, and has accused Maduro's government of "political persecution." This blackout, which has affected various regions of the country, occurs despite the government's implementation of a "special patrol and surveillance plan" in electrical facilities, ordered by Maduro himself at the end of June. The president had previously warned of a supposed "electric war" orchestrated by "fascist far-right groups" aimed at destabilizing the country. However, the effectiveness of this plan has been called into question, as blackouts continue to be a constant in the daily lives of Venezuelans. Reports from users in different states indicate that power outages occur regularly, with some lasting up to a week. Complaints are frequent, especially in less affluent areas of Caracas and in regions of the interior, where access to basic services has become increasingly precarious. The recurring lack of electricity not only affects daily life but also impacts health, education, and the economy of citizens. The last major national blackout occurred in March 2019, when millions of Venezuelans were left without power for four days. On that occasion, Maduro's government also blamed the opposition and foreign governments, particularly the United States and Colombia, for causing the electrical crisis. This pattern of attributing blame to external factors seems to be a recurring strategy of the government to divert attention from failures in infrastructure and public management. Despite the government's efforts to present a united and firm front in the face of adversity, the reality is that social discontent is felt in every corner of the country. The lack of electricity impacts not only the comfort of homes but also access to health services and economic productivity. In a country where the humanitarian crisis has worsened in recent years, the scarcity of electrical energy further exacerbates the situation. Criticism of the government comes not only from the opposition but also from international organizations that have pointed to a lack of transparency in the executive's management. The silence regarding the details of the electoral results and the absence of clear information about the state of the electrical system fuel distrust among the population. Many Venezuelans live in a state of uncertainty about the country's future and its ability to restore reliable electrical service. Maduro has called on his base to remain steadfast and confront what he considers an attack on the country's sovereignty. However, the challenge he faces is monumental, as the perception of a failed state has deeply rooted itself in the collective consciousness of Venezuelans. The policy of blaming foreign enemies does not seem sufficient to calm the frustration felt by the population. As the electrical situation remains unresolved, the demand for clear answers and effective solutions becomes more urgent. Venezuelans are calling not only for the restoration of power supply but also for a change in the way the country is managed. Social pressure could force the government to rethink its strategies, both in the electrical sector and in the political arena.