U.S. Deploys Warships Close to Venezuela, Heightening Tensions
U.S. Naval Presence in the Caribbean
- Expansion of Military Forces: The U.S. is increasing its naval presence in the Southern Caribbean, particularly near Venezuela, with seven warships and a nuclear-powered submarine either currently in the area or expected to arrive soon. This deployment is notably larger than typical U.S. military operations in the region.
- Mission Uncertainty: While the Pentagon has not specified the mission, Secretary of State Marco Rubio has indicated that military action may be directed against Latin American drug cartels.
Venezuelan Response
- Condemnation from Maduro: Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has criticized the U.S. naval buildup, asserting that Venezuela is prepared to defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity. He emphasized that the U.S. cannot enter Venezuela.
- Military Mobilization: In response to perceived threats, Venezuela has deployed 15,000 troops to its border with Colombia and is encouraging citizens to join a volunteer militia to support the armed forces.
Allegations Against Maduro
- U.S. Reward for Information: The U.S. government is offering a $50 million reward for information leading to Maduro's arrest, accusing him of involvement in the Cartel of the Suns, a drug-trafficking organization linked to high-ranking Venezuelan officials. The State Department has classified this cartel as a terrorist group.
- Criticism of U.S. Actions: Venezuelan UN ambassador Samuel Moncada has labeled the U.S. military presence as a propaganda effort to justify potential military intervention, arguing that it is absurd to claim that the U.S. is combating drug trafficking with nuclear submarines.
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