A significant military maneuver involving two B-1B bombers took place over the Caribbean Sea near Venezuela, according to flight tracking data released on Monday. This flight marks the third show of American military force in the region in recent weeks.
The long-range bombers, which originated from a base in North Dakota, flew parallel to the Venezuelan coastline before their signal disappeared from tracking systems. This operation coincides with U.S. efforts to confront alleged drug trafficking activities in the area. The deployment of U.S. forces has raised concerns in Caracas, leading to fears that these military actions could be a precursor to regime change in Venezuela.
This recent flight follows another deployment of at least one B-1B bomber last week and a separate operation that involved multiple B-52 bombers the week prior. The United States has also intensified its military presence in the region by sending the USS Gerald R. Ford carrier strike group to Latin America, alongside the deployment of ten F-35 stealth warplanes to Puerto Rico. Currently, the U.S. Navy maintains seven ships in the Caribbean as part of its counter-narcotics operations.
Throughout September, U.S. forces have targeted and struck at least ten vessels allegedly involved in drug trafficking activities, including nine boats and a semi-submersible. These operations have reportedly resulted in the deaths of at least 43 individuals, based on figures compiled by AFP. However, there has been no public release of evidence confirming that the struck vessels were indeed involved in drug smuggling.
As these military actions continue, tensions in the region have escalated. Venezuelan authorities accuse the U.S. of attempting to instigate a coup against President Nicolás Maduro, who has labeled the ongoing military campaign as a fabricated conflict aimed at undermining his government. The geopolitical situation remains fraught as both nations navigate this complex and escalating confrontation.
