The USS Gerald R. Ford, the world’s largest aircraft carrier, is moving to the northern Caribbean amid rising tensions with Venezuela. Accompanying the carrier are 15,000 service members, including 2,000 Marines from an amphibious assault ship.
According to a U.S. military official, preparations are underway for potential military action. High-level discussions are ongoing among administration officials, Congress, and international leaders.
President Trump has not confirmed whether he will use military force. The U.S. has already conducted 20 strikes on boats linked to drug trafficking from Venezuela. Recently, the government announced a $50 million reward for the arrest of Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro. The arrival of the USS Gerald Ford is seen by some as a strategic pressure tactic on Maduro, who has put his military on high alert.
Trump hinted at a decision regarding action against Venezuela, stating, “I sort of made up my mind.” He noted improvements in curbing drug shipments from the country.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth revealed the ongoing operation, named “Operation Southern Spear,” through social media. He emphasized that this mission aims to remove narco-terrorists and safeguard the U.S. from drugs.
The increased military presence follows the surprising resignation of Adm. Alvin Holsey, who had been in charge of the strikes. Sources suggest his departure, two years early, was due to disagreements over tactics that had already resulted in the deaths of at least 80 people. Many strikes targeted boats without immediate threats.
This situation is complex. Recent statistics indicate that drug-related violence has surged in the U.S., contributing to ongoing public concern. Social media trends reflect this anxiety, with users debating the effectiveness and morality of U.S. interventions abroad.
Experts warn that military actions could escalate tensions further. “The region is volatile. A miscalculation could lead to serious consequences,” cautions Dr. Maria Vasquez, a political scientist specializing in Latin American relations.
As events unfold, the focus is on how the deployments will impact diplomatic relations and regional stability.
For more detailed insights, you can read the U.S. State Department’s official statements on the situation in Venezuela.
