US Deploys F-35 Jets to Puerto Rico Amid Rising Tensions Near Venezuela

Washington, September 05:The United States has announced the deployment of 10 F-35 fighter jets to Puerto Rico as part of expanded operations against drug cartels in the Caribbean, escalating its military presence close to Venezuela.

Officials said the move is aimed at strengthening aerial surveillance and strike capabilities to disrupt transnational narcotics networks that use maritime routes through the Caribbean. The Pentagon stressed the jets would also act as a deterrent to “regional threats,” without directly naming Venezuela.

The decision comes as President Donald Trump continues to bolster US military assets around Venezuela following last week’s controversial strike on a vessel in the southern Caribbean, which Washington claimed killed 11 drug traffickers linked to the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua.

Regional analysts say the deployment could further strain relations with Caracas, which has repeatedly accused Washington of preparing for “aggression under the guise of anti-drug operations.” Venezuela has not yet issued a response to the latest announcement.

The arrival of the F-35s marks one of the largest recent airpower buildups in the Caribbean and signals Washington’s determination to expand its counter-narcotics campaign while maintaining pressure on President Nicolás Maduro’s government.