The U.S. Marines have launched large-scale training exercises in southern Puerto Rico designed to simulate amphibious landings on terrain resembling Venezuela’s, amid escalating tensions between Washington and Caracas. The 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit, based in North Carolina, carried out the drills as part of a broader U.S. military buildup in the Caribbean, officially framed as a counter-narcotics mission. However, regional observers and Venezuelan officials view the exercises as a potential prelude to military action.
The exercises involved a significant U.S. naval presence, including the amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima, along with USS San Antonio and USS Fort Lauderdale. Together, these vessels transported more than 4,000 sailors and Marines, who have been stationed in the region since last week. The drills, described by U.S. officials as “realistic,” took place in terrain that mirrors Venezuela’s tropical, mountainous coastal regions, which analysts believe is no coincidence given the heightened geopolitical climate.
Currently, the U.S. has deployed four guided-missile destroyers, at least one attack submarine, multiple combat ships, three amphibious landing craft, and reconnaissance aircraft to the area. Many of these assets are actively participating in the Puerto Rico drills.
In response, Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has ordered the mobilization of the Bolivarian Militia and overseen large-scale military exercises near the Colombian border, deploying approximately 15,000 troops. Naval patrols and drone surveillance along Venezuela’s Caribbean coast have also been stepped up, according to Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino.
Tensions between Washington and Caracas have been steadily mounting since the failed 2019 U.S.-backed attempt to install opposition leader Juan Guaidó as Venezuela’s leader during former President Donald Trump’s first term. Observers speculate that with internal opposition to Maduro largely weakened, Washington may now be weighing external pressure, including the threat of force, as a means of achieving regime change.
Adding to the pressure, the U.S. placed a $50 million reward last month for Maduro’s arrest, alleging his involvement in narcotics trafficking.