Recent developments indicate that American forces are preparing for immediate airstrikes against military sites in Venezuela. Reports suggest that these strikes could occur in a matter of days or even hours.
US Military Movements Near Venezuela
The Pentagon has positioned the USS Gerald R. Ford, the largest aircraft carrier in the world, in the Caribbean as part of an initiative led by President Donald Trump. This deployment aims to target criminal organizations within Venezuela, specifically the notorious Cartel de los Soles.
- USS Gerald R. Ford was commissioned in 2017.
- It can accommodate up to 90 aircraft and more than 5,000 personnel.
The carrier strike group enhances the US military’s capability to detect and disrupt illegal activities threatening American safety, according to Pentagon officials. In recent weeks, tensions between the United States and Venezuela have escalated, reaching a critical point.
Targeting the Cartel de los Soles
The impending airstrikes aim to dismantle the networks of the Cartel de los Soles, allegedly led by Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. Current sources indicate that the military operations may involve significant air power, including stealth F-35 jets, B-52 bombers, and unmanned Reaper drones.
Recently, the US military has executed at least 13 strikes against suspected drug vessels, resulting in the deaths of approximately 57 individuals from Venezuela, Colombia, and Ecuador. President Trump has characterized these efforts as life-saving measures, portraying Maduro’s Venezuela as a major hub for drug trafficking.
Military Buildup and Venezuelan Defense
In addition to airstrikes, 10,000 US troops, along with military helicopters and intelligence assets, are being positioned near Venezuela. Trump has also deployed two B-1B Lancer bombers, which can carry substantial payloads, to enhance the military presence close to Venezuelan airspace.
Amid these tensions, Nicolás Maduro has responded by claiming that Venezuela possesses 5,000 Russian-made anti-aircraft missiles positioned strategically for defense. Intelligence from Caracas suggests that members of Hezbollah, Colombian guerrillas, and Cuban forces are integrated into Maduro’s security framework.
Escalating Conflict and Diplomatic Strain
The conflict has resulted in Trump’s declaration of a “non-international armed conflict” with cartel groups, leading to a cessation of diplomatic communications with Venezuela. In addition, Trump has accused Colombian President Gustavo Petro of connections to illegal drug activities.
With a reward of $50 million offered for information leading to Maduro’s arrest, the stakes in this ongoing conflict continue to rise. The situation remains fluid, with both military and diplomatic strategies being closely monitored by global observers.
