Venezuela Mobilizes 200,000 Troops As U.S. Aircraft Carrier Strike Group Arrives In Caribbean
Venezuela has ordered its military to prepare for war, mobilizing 200,000 soldiers in direct response to the deployment of the U.S. Navy’s USS Gerald R. Ford aircraft carrier strike group to Latin American waters.
The move comes as tensions rapidly escalate in the Caribbean, with the U.S. military buildup described as a “counterterrorism mission” by Washington. Venezuela’s Defense Minister issued a stern warning to the United States, declaring that “if they come to touch Venezuela there you will see a people determined to defend this homeland to the death.”
The USS Gerald R. Ford, the world’s largest warship, was dispatched to the region ahead of schedule, accompanied by three guided-missile destroyers. The strike group carries nearly 4,000 sailors and dozens of warplanes. The deployment signifies a major U.S. presence, with approximately 24% of all U.S. Navy vessels now operating under U.S. Southern Command.
Further escalating the concern in the region is the return of U.S. ground forces to Panama for the first time in over two decades. The troops are conducting jungle warfare training, reviving a Cold War-era program, which coincides with White House discussions regarding potential land operations.
The aggressive posture by the U.S. has prompted a significant diplomatic rift with key allies. Both Colombia and the United Kingdom have reportedly begun limiting some of the intelligence they share with the U.S.
The allies’ concerns center on recent U.S. military strikes against 19 boats, which allegedly killed 75 people. Officials in both allied nations contend that these actions “contravene international law and amount to extrajudicial killings of civilians.” While a U.S. official insisted that partnerships remain strong and unimpeded, the withholding of intelligence marks a considerable setback for counter-narcotic and anti-terrorism operations.
Despite the troop mobilization, an administration briefer indicated that the U.S. “does not want to go to war with Venezuela.” However, analysts suggest the action amounts to a clear display of “gunboat diplomacy” in the region.
READ MORE: Trump Briefed On Potential Land Strikes In Venezuela As Caracas Mobilizes 200,000 Troops
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