DEVELOPING: Venezuela has swiftly deployed warships and drones to patrol its coastline, escalating tensions with the United States, which recently dispatched three destroyers to the region. Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino announced the military buildup via social media, highlighting a “significant” drone deployment and naval patrols along the Caribbean coast.
This urgent move comes as the U.S. Navy intensifies its presence, sending three guided-missile destroyers and 4,000 Marines to the area last week as part of efforts to combat drug trafficking. A U.S. source revealed that President Donald Trump is sending two additional ships, including the guided missile cruiser USS Erie and the nuclear-powered fast attack submarine USS Newport News, expected to arrive next week.
The military maneuvers reflect rising tensions, with analysts suggesting that the U.S. is attempting to pressure President Nicolás Maduro into negotiations. Despite the significant military buildup, experts are downplaying the likelihood of a U.S. invasion, with many Venezuelans perceiving the threats as mere posturing.
In a recent statement, Maduro, who claimed a controversial third term in the July 2024 elections, criticized U.S. actions as efforts for regime change. He has called on Venezuelans to join the militia in response to what he terms “outlandish threats” from the Trump administration. Thousands of citizens, including civil servants and retirees, have lined up to enlist, heeding his call.
Caracas has also taken diplomatic action, petitioning the United Nations to demand an immediate halt to U.S. military deployments in the Caribbean. On Monday, the Venezuelan government announced a deployment of 15,000 troops to its border with Colombia, asserting that the country is “free from drug trafficking,” despite ongoing accusations against Maduro of leading the Cartel de los Soles, which has been designated a terrorist organization by U.S. authorities.
Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello reported that these troops will enhance security in Zulia and Tachira states, which border Colombia. He emphasized the government’s commitment to combating drug trafficking, claiming the seizure of 53 tons of drugs so far this year.
In a separate announcement, Minister Padrino disclosed that ongoing operations in northeastern Venezuela have led to the dismantling of shipyards intended for the construction of semisubmersible vessels, often used by drug traffickers to transport narcotics to markets in North America and Europe. These vessels, known as “narco subs,” have been increasingly spotted attempting to evade law enforcement.
As the situation evolves, the international community is closely monitoring developments in Venezuela. The combination of military posturing and domestic mobilization reflects a critical moment for Maduro’s administration amid ongoing U.S. pressure.
Stay tuned for further updates as this situation unfolds.
