SHOTLIST:

JULUUI, VENEZUELA (DEC. 18, 2025) (ANADOLU – ACCESS ALL)

1. VARIOUS OF FISHERMEN WALKING BY RUSTIC HUTS ALONG SHORELINE, SAILING ON SMALL FISHING BOATS, HANDLING NETS, EQUIPMENT AND CLEANING FISH

2. LEANDRO URIANA, WAYUU FISHERMAN SPEAKING TO REPORTER (Spanish) JULUUI, VENEZUELA - DEC. 18: Artisanal fishermen from the Wayuu indigenous community in Juluui, located in the Alta Guajira region of Venezuela, are struggling to maintain their livelihoods amidst economic hardships and rising maritime security concerns.

Footage captured on Thursday, Dec. 18, shows the daily routine along the coast, where fishermen unload their catch into polystyrene boxes filled with ice. However, locals report that the industry is under strain.

Leandro Uriana, a 38-year-old fisherman, explained that increased competition has depleted resources. "Before, there were not many fishermen or boats, and there was more fish. But now, since there are more people working in fishing, the activity has changed a bit," Uriana said.

Beyond economic challenges, the community is on edge due to geopolitical tensions. Uriana noted that the recent presence of military vessels near the coast—including Venezuelan patrols and reported US ships—has forced fishermen to restrict their movements.

"The boats no longer went very far offshore. We were not officially warned, but there was precaution among us," Uriana stated, emphasizing the community's desire to work without risking danger at sea.