The U.S. military has significantly increased its presence off the coast of Venezuela as part of an expanded campaign to address dangerous drug cartels and narco-terrorist networks, according to reports.
Nearly 25% of the Navy’s deployed warships are in the Caribbean, including four squadrons of F-18 Super Hornets aircraft, more than 200 Tomahawk cruise missiles, and a heightened military activity warning from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The FAA issued an advisory urging airlines to exercise caution when operating in the Maiquetia flight information region due to the worsening security situation and increased military activity near Venezuela.
President Trump has expressed openness to dialogue with Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro, who has stated he is open to conversations but not conflict. The U.S. Southern Command has deployed bombers, warships, and Marines as part of a broader effort targeting drug-trafficking operations in the region.
The FAA’s warning emphasizes that threats could pose risks to aircraft at all altitudes, including during overflight, arrival, departure, and airport operations. Airlines are requested to provide at least 72-hour advance notice to the FAA if planning to fly through the area.
The U.S. military’s actions mark a significant shift in regional strategy, with officials highlighting the need for forceful defense of the hemisphere.