The United States is significantly bolstering its military presence in the Caribbean by adding a formidable amphibious squadron to the three guided-missile destroyers already approaching Venezuela's coastline as part of a counter-narcotics operation. According to information from El Nuevo Herald, the ships USS San Antonio, USS Iwo Jima, and USS Fort Lauderdale might be stationed off the Venezuelan coast by this Sunday.
These vessels enhance the ability to swiftly deploy Marines into hostile territories, greatly expanding the operation's reach. Collectively, they carry approximately 4,500 military personnel, including 2,200 Marines from an expeditionary unit. Although the Pentagon has not publicly disclosed the mission details, U.S. officials assert that it aligns with the Trump administration's strategy to confront designated "narcoterrorist organizations" in the region.
Naval Power and Amphibious Landing Capability
The USS San Antonio, a lead ship of its class, is designed to transport troops and equipment directly to coastal areas using boats and helicopters. The USS Iwo Jima, a Wasp-class amphibious assault ship, functions like a small aircraft carrier capable of coordinating large-scale air and sea operations. Meanwhile, the USS Fort Lauderdale, commissioned in 2022, combines stealth technology with new amphibious warfare capabilities.
These naval forces join the destroyers USS Sampson, USS Jason Dunham, and USS Gravely, equipped with the Aegis system and long-range Tomahawk missiles. The mix of destroyers and amphibious ships provides the United States with a formidable force that covers sea and air and offers the potential to project ground forces if necessary.
Maduro Activates Militia
The U.S. deployment coincides with Nicolás Maduro's decision to initiate a special plan to mobilize 4.5 million militia members across the country. The Venezuelan leader accused Washington of using "extravagant threats" to justify an intervention and urged his supporters to defend "seas, skies, and land." Meanwhile, ALBA countries, in an extraordinary summit, condemned Washington's naval movement, labeling it a "violation of international law."
The presence of destroyers and amphibious ships near Venezuela raises regional tensions and once again places the Caribbean as a focal point of strategic confrontation between Washington and Caracas.
Understanding the U.S. Military Deployment in the Caribbean
What is the purpose of the U.S. military presence near Venezuela?
The U.S. military presence near Venezuela is part of a counter-narcotics operation aimed at confronting "narcoterrorist organizations" in the region, as per the Trump administration's strategy.
What capabilities do the U.S. amphibious ships possess?
The U.S. amphibious ships, including the USS San Antonio, USS Iwo Jima, and USS Fort Lauderdale, have the capability to transport troops and equipment to coastal areas and support large-scale air and sea operations.
How has Venezuela responded to the U.S. military deployment?
Venezuela, under Nicolás Maduro, has activated a plan to mobilize 4.5 million militia members, accusing the U.S. of attempting to justify an intervention with extravagant threats.