Defense Secretary of the U.S. affirming that troops stationed in the Caribbean are not engaged in a military drill.
In a surprising turn of events, Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has announced the advancement of Christmas celebrations in the country, starting from October 1st. The move, according to Maduro, aims to stimulate commerce and cultural activity, and promote a festive atmosphere. However, Maduro's statement did not mention any response from Donald Trump regarding possible U.S. attacks on the Cartel of the Suns in Venezuela.
Meanwhile, the US Secretary of Defense, Pete Hegseth, is currently deployed in the Caribbean on a military ship named USS Iwo Jima. Hegseth insists that the operation is not a training exercise, but a real operation, aimed at combating drug trafficking from Venezuela. On Tuesday, the operation reportedly destroyed a boat allegedly owned by the Tren de Aragua gang and carrying narcotics.
However, there is no evidence to suggest that Caribbean states are officially supporting Venezuela in any military capacity. In fact, the majority of Caribbean states maintain distanced or cautious relationships with Venezuela, particularly in light of international sanctions and the country's political isolation.
Venezuela has intensified its military presence in the region, particularly in relation to territorial disputes over the Essequibo Region, which is internationally contentious and not recognised by most Caribbean states. The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and Guyana have repeatedly expressed concerns over Venezuelan threats.
Maduro's denunciation of "threats" and "lies" from the US administration, and accusations of Washington trying to force a regime change in Venezuela, further add to the complex political and military landscape in the region.
Some voices on Puerto Rico are calling for the territory not to be "remilitarized." The USS Iwo Jima is located south of the coasts of Puerto Rico, a US territory. Caracas, Venezuela, has accused Washington of these actions.
Despite Venezuela's ongoing activities and claims in the region, there are no indications that Caribbean states are supporting Venezuela in any military presence. On the contrary, most Caribbean states are critical of these developments and support Guyana's sovereignty.
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