Deployment of F-35 Fighter Jets to Puerto Rico

The Trump administration is set to send 10 F-35 fighter jets to Puerto Rico, enhancing U.S. military capabilities in the Southern Caribbean as part of a broader initiative against drug cartels.

This deployment aims to target specific narcotic organizations operating in the region. The F-35, known for its stealth and combat abilities, is expected to bolster the U.S. presence in areas aligned with President Donald Trump’s strategy against drug trafficking.

The announcement follows Trump’s recent declaration of a decisive strike on a cartel ship transporting drugs in the Southern Caribbean. Colombian President Gustavo Petro referred to this action as a “murder” in a statement made on Wednesday, as reported by the Daily Caller News Foundation.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio indicated on Wednesday that the Trump administration is prepared to intensify military operations against drug cartels, implying that more strikes could be forthcoming.

In recent criticism, Trump targeted Venezuela and its Prime Minister Nicolás Maduro, who was labeled a terrorist in February for his association with the Tren de Aragua gang. The U.S. government has accused the Venezuelan administration of being involved in drug trafficking.

This escalation comes after the U.S. Navy dispatched several warships to the Eastern Caribbean in recent weeks. Maduro has responded, claiming that the U.S. is creating a “regime change threat.” He denounced U.S. actions as “extravagant, unjust, immoral, and absolutely criminal.”

Additionally, reports suggest that up to 4,500 Marines and Seamen have been deployed to Puerto Rico to engage in drills associated with this operation.

The announcement regarding the F-35s reportedly comes shortly after the Pentagon noted that Venezuelan aircraft had been conducting “provocative” maneuvers around American warships.