In a bold move, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has anchored the Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group in the Central and South American waters, aiming to deploy an additional 5,000 troops along with advanced firepower targeted at the Venezuelan government. This strategic buildup signifies a stronger U.S. stance in the ongoing efforts against narcotic trafficking.
Though the carrier group is currently stationed near Croatia, it’s expected to take some time—days or possibly weeks—before reaching its designated area. This implies that any direct military assault on Venezuela isn’t likely to happen immediately.
“These military enhancements are essential to better combat drug trafficking and put a dent in transnational criminal organizations (TCOs),” stated Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell.
The seriousness of this deployment opens up discussions about President Trump’s tactics in urging Venezuelan President Maduro to resign. Just recently, Trump issued stark warnings of potential direct military action against Venezuela.
To date, U.S. military forces have targeted 10 suspected drug vessels, mainly typical to the Venezuelan coast but carried out exclusively in international waters.
According to Hegseth, last night marked the latest strike; the hit was on a suspected drug vessel associated with Tren de Aragua, resulting in six casualties linked to the incident.
Overall, U.S. strikes have reportedly led to the deaths of around 43 individuals.
The deployment announced on Friday is set to increase Navy ships in the area to a total of 13, boosting the military’s beefed-up presence from an existing 10,000 personnel to around 15,000 troops. The increased deployment also comprises F-18 fighter jets, which may revolutionize the intensity of military actions against drug operations.
Additionally, forces in the region include 10 F-35 jets and MQ-9 Reaper drones. Hegseth has prompted further preparations of B-52 and B-1 bombers, as well as Black Hawk helicopters and MH-6 Little Birds for missions along the Venezuelan coast.
Recently, two B-1 bombers conducted what officials described as a training operation over the Caribbean, as detailed sources relayed to ABC News.
The ongoing military strikes against drug vessels stem from the administration’s proclaimed “war” against the drug cartels, although the use of lethal force brings forth numerous legal queries, as past administrations prioritised law enforcement over military intervention.
“For the first time, we are recognizing drug cartels as a fundamental national security issue. They are fighting a war against America,” Trump emphasized during a White House announcement on Thursday that included Hegseth and other key officials, discussing their tactical advancements against organized crime.
As reporters raised questions about seeking Congress’ approval for a traditional war declaration amidst escalating actions, Trump replied, “We probably won’t go that route. We’re motivated to take down those responsible for drug trafficking into our nation. Just know, it’s going to get lethal for them.”
This report gathers contributions from ABC News, with content by Alexandra Hutzler.
