Summary
United States Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth informed Marines in Puerto Rico that their deployment is part of an active mission, not a training exercise. The focus is on stopping drug trafficking from Latin America, especially concerning tension with Venezuela after a recent incident involving a Venezuelan boat. The U.S. has increased its military presence in the Caribbean as part of this effort.
Key Facts
- U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stated that the Marines' mission in the Caribbean is an active operation, not training.
- The deployment aims to combat drug trafficking in the region, specifically from Venezuela.
- Recently, the U.S. sank a Venezuelan boat, leading to increased tensions, with President Trump claiming it was carrying drugs.
- Critics of the U.S. government's actions, including both Congress members and rights groups, question the legality of the strike.
- There has been increased U.S. military presence in the Caribbean, including the deployment of F-35 jets.
- The U.S. government accuses Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro of overseeing drug trafficking, which he denies.
- Regional leaders like Trinidad and Tobago's Prime Minister have voiced support for the U.S.'s actions against drug cartels.
