US President Donald Trump issued a strong warning this week, saying that Venezuelan fighter jets could be shot down if they pose a threat to American citizens.
The statement comes after two Venezuelan Air Force F-16 fighter jets flew close to the USS Jason Dunham, a US Navy destroyer that was sailing through international waters. Despite its close proximity, the US ships did not respond to flight.
According to the Pentagon, Caracas’ actions were considered “extremely provocative” and were interpreted as an attempt to disrupt US drug trafficking and counterterrorism operations. The Department of Defense also warned Venezuela to refrain from obstructing similar missions in the future.
+ Russia reveals training for the Courier, a combat robot equipped with heavy weapons
Tensions intensified after ship destruction
This incident occurred amid growing tension. On September 2nd, the US troops destroyed a Venezuelan ship carrying 11 people. President Trump said the ship belonged to a drug cartel classified as a “terrorist organization” and was loaded with drugs.
Trump has released footage on social media showing the airstrikes that led to the destruction of the ship. He stressed that the US has not considered a change of government in Venezuela and is not planning a direct attack on the country, but does not tolerate any continued criminal activity or smuggling activities.
Cartel measures and pressure on the Maduro administration
White House officials suggested that attacks on Venezuelan ships could merely be the beginning of a broader strategy against local drug cartels.
The US government believes that such operations will weaken the Nicholas Maduro administration and contribute to increasing political and economic pressure on Caracas.
Washington emphasizes that its main purpose is to destroy criminal networks, but experts point out that the offensive could have a direct impact on the stability of the Venezuelan government.
source: Militarnyi | X @WhiteHouse. This content was confirmed by the editorial department with support from AI.
