US Military Activity Rises in Puerto Rico After Trump Warns of Land Strikes on Venezuela

Washington: Amid already rising diplomatic tensions between the US and Venezuela, US military activities in Puerto Rico have suddenly increased, escalating uncertainty in the region. US President Donald Trump has recently warned that ground action (land strike) will soon be taken to stop the drug trade from Venezuela to America. After this, military activity has intensified in the Caribbean region. 

Trump's warning and military emphasis

Speaking to the media at the White House, Trump said that drug smuggling from Venezuela to America is increasing and it is necessary to take steps to stop it. He indicated that instead of the sea, they would now “take action on land,” which has made the surface of the opposite country even more vulnerable.

U.S. Navy EA-18G “Growler” Electronic Warfare Aircraft, likely with the “Scorpions” of Electromagnetic Attack Squadron 132 (VAQ-132), spotted on the tarmac at Roosevelt Roads Naval Station in Eastern Puerto Rico, after crossing the United States and arriving last night from Naval… pic.twitter.com/GMIX6yTfhq

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Immediately after this warning, US Coast Guard helicopters and Marine Corps tilt-rotor Osprey aircraft were seen active at Ponce Airfield and surrounding areas in Puerto Rico. This move comes at a time when America is increasing its military resources in the Caribbean. 

Military presence increased in the Caribbean

Over the past few months, the US military has reactivated old naval bases like Roosevelt Roads in Puerto Rico and increased the deployment of ships, fighter planes, and troops in the region. These preparations emerged at a time when the administration considered military options against Venezuela. 

Analysts say that the rationale behind these activities is formally 'action against drug trafficking,' but the real reflection is that the US is putting increasing pressure on the Venezuelan leadership. In the view of some experts, this military structure is the largest built in decades.

Sharp reaction from Venezuela

At the same time, Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has responded to every strict action taken by America and described it in terms like “colonial aggression.” Recently, when America seized an oil tanker, Venezuela called it “international piracy,” which has further deepened the gap in the relations between the two countries. 
reuters

Regional and international concerns

This increasing military activity and tough statements have not only increased the tension between the US and Venezuela but have also worried other countries and global powers in South America and the Caribbean. Many countries have appealed for a peaceful solution, while some have described America's steps as leading to war. 

This situation is currently developing, and the international community is monitoring its possible impacts. Due to the verbal altercation and military preparations of both the Trump administration and the Venezuelan government, this region may reach an even more sensitive point in the future.