US Escalates Military Presence in Caribbean
The United States is deploying ten F-35 fighter jets to Puerto Rico as part of an intensified campaign against drug cartels in the Caribbean region. According to sources cited by Reuters, this military escalation represents a significant increase in American firepower directed at combating transnational criminal organizations.
Military Buildup and Strategic Objectives
The F-35 deployment follows weeks of military preparation in the Southern Caribbean, including the dispatch of seven warships, a nuclear submarine, and over 4,500 military personnel. The advanced fighter jets are expected to conduct targeted operations against terrorist drug cartels operating in the region, with arrival scheduled for late next week.
This military action appears to be a direct response to Tuesday's incident where US forces attacked a Venezuelan vessel allegedly transporting large quantities of drugs. The operation resulted in eleven fatalities, with President Trump claiming the victims were members of the Tren de Aragua cartel, designated as a terrorist organization by the US in February 2025.
Geopolitical Tensions and Regional Impact
The deployment has significantly heightened tensions between the United States and Venezuela. US Secretary of State Rubio stated during his visit to Ecuador that the US would "blow up foreign criminal organizations if necessary," while Defense Secretary Hegseth described Venezuelan President Maduro as "effectively the leader of a narco-state."
Maduro has accused the United States of attempting to overthrow his government through military pressure and has mobilized Venezuelan citizens to strengthen the military "to protect the homeland." The situation escalated further when two Venezuelan military aircraft flew near a US Navy ship, described by the Pentagon as "a gross provocation."
Background: The Cartel Controversy
The US alleges Maduro leads the 'Cartel of the Suns,' a disputed organization supposedly comprising high-ranking military officials and administrators profiting from drug trafficking. However, academic experts like Fernando Casado have questioned the existence of this cartel, suggesting it may be a political construction to delegitimize the Venezuelan government.
President Trump has offered a $50 million reward for information leading to Maduro's arrest, citing his alleged cooperation with drug barons. This military escalation represents the latest chapter in the ongoing confrontation between the US and Venezuela over drug trafficking and regional security issues.