U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Air Force Gen. Dan Caine visited Puerto Rico amid increased military operations against Caribbean drug cartels. Their visit follows the deployment of hundreds of Marines for what was initially described as training, but Hegseth later clarified as real-world operations to combat drug trafficking. The deployment of 10 F-35 fighter jets is also planned. While the Governor of Puerto Rico supports the operation, protests against the increased military presence have occurred, citing concerns about the island's history with military training exercises.

Prepared by Rachel Morgan and reviewed by editorial team.