U.S. Deployed 10 Fighter Jets to Puerto Rico: A Strategic Move Against Drug Cartels

The U.S. is deploying 10 F-35 fighter jets to Puerto Rico to target drug cartels. This move comes as tensions rise with Venezuela over drug trafficking activities. A recent U.S. strike on a boat linked to alleged drug traffickers has heightened these tensions.

In late August, three U.S. guided-missile destroyers were sent to the waters near Venezuela. This was part of the effort led by former President Trump to combat threats posed by Latin American drug cartels. Recently, two armed Venezuelan F-16s flew over one of the U.S. destroyers, signaling a show of force.

According to a recent Gallup poll, nearly 60% of Americans support using military action against drug cartels, highlighting growing public concern over the fentanyl crisis and its impact on communities. Trump has consistently called for military involvement to stem the flow of illicit drugs into the U.S., including fentanyl, which has been devastating many American cities.

This situation isn’t new; the U.S. has a long history of military involvement in drug-related operations in Latin America. In the 1980s, Operation Condor targeted drug traffickers, setting a precedent for military intervention in combatting the drug trade.

Although U.S. officials haven’t disclosed the exact strategy for the jets, the deployment underscores a renewed commitment to tackling the drug problem, with experts noting that military action is just one piece of the puzzle. Many suggest that a combination of military, diplomatic, and economic solutions is needed to effectively combat drug cartels and their impacts.

For ongoing updates on this situation and its implications, you can keep an eye on CBS News.

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Drug Cartels, United States Military, Trump Administration, Puerto Rico