The Trump administration is escalating its military response to drug trafficking in the Caribbean. Ten F-35 fighter jets are being deployed to Puerto Rico to support ongoing operations targeting Venezuelan drug cartels. This follows a US missile strike on a suspected drug boat and recent incidents involving Venezuelan military aircraft near US warships. The deployment marks a significant intensification of the US military presence in the region, prompting concerns about potential unintended consequences, including a wider conflict.

Prepared by Rachel Morgan and reviewed by editorial team.