Tensions between the United States and Venezuela have intensified once again. On Friday, Venezuelan fighter jets flew over the USS Jason Dunham for the second time in just two days, an event confirmed by multiple U.S. Department of Defense officials to CBS News. These officials likened the maneuver to a "chicken game," noting that the Venezuelan F-16 jets from the National Bolivarian Armed Forces (FANB) came close enough to pose a potential threat to the ship and aircraft weaponry. It remains unclear if the jets were armed.
This incident gains further significance as it followed a stern warning from President Donald Trump to Caracas only hours earlier. During a Friday morning press conference, Trump instructed Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth and Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman General Dan Caine, stating, "If they fly in a dangerous manner... you or your captains can decide what to do. If they act recklessly, we will shoot them down."
This warning came after a Venezuelan aircraft was first detected on Thursday, which the Pentagon labeled as a "highly provocative action" aimed at disrupting anti-drug and counter-terrorism operations.
The USS Jason Dunham is part of a fleet of destroyers and amphibious ships deployed in the Caribbean, with over 4,500 personnel. This deployment is a component of Trump's strategy to combat regional drug trafficking, specifically targeting the Cartel of the Suns, which Washington claims is led by Nicolás Maduro and his military circle.
Simultaneously, the White House has announced the relocation of ten F-35 fighter jets, considered the most advanced in the U.S. arsenal, to Puerto Rico. This move aims to bolster U.S. deterrence and offensive capabilities amid growing confrontations with Venezuelan aircraft and vessels.
Earlier in the week, a U.S. naval operation sank a ship identified as belonging to the criminal group Tren de Aragua, resulting in 11 casualties. In response, Caracas accused Washington of "seeking regime change through military threats" and warned of preparing a "planned armed struggle" in case of aggression.
U.S.-Venezuela Tensions and Military Maneuvers
Why did Venezuelan jets fly over the USS Jason Dunham?
Venezuelan fighter jets flew over the USS Jason Dunham in what U.S. officials described as a provocative maneuver, likely intended to challenge U.S. operations in the region.
What was President Trump's response to the Venezuelan jets' actions?
President Trump issued a direct warning, allowing U.S. military officials to decide on necessary actions, including shooting down the jets if they posed a danger.
How is the U.S. strengthening its military presence in the Caribbean?
The U.S. has deployed a fleet of ships and moved ten F-35 jets to Puerto Rico to enhance its deterrence and offensive capabilities in the region.