President Trump has intensified his criticism of Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro, stating that the dictator’s “days are numbered.” This declaration comes as the United States embarks on its largest military buildup in the Caribbean in over 35 years.
During an interview on “60 Minutes,” Trump articulated that the Maduro administration is not just the source of drugs and crime in the U.S., but is also a significant factor in the mass migration of Venezuelans.
“They’ve treated us very poorly, not only with drugs. They’ve sent hundreds of thousands of people into our country—people who were in prison. They’ve emptied prisons into our country,” he stated. “They have even, as seen, moved mental health facilities into the United States.”
Criminal organizations like Torren de Aragua and Cartel de los Soles have joined the latest influx of Venezuelan refugees, bringing with them a history of robbery, drug trafficking, and exploitation.
Backing his strong rhetoric with military might, Trump has deployed the USS Gerald Ford, the largest aircraft carrier globally, along with nuclear submarines, guided missile destroyers, and additional troops to the Caribbean Sea.
Despite losing electoral contests in 2019 and 2023, Maduro has maintained control of Venezuela since 2013 and continues to show resilience amid economic turmoil, international sanctions, and mounting isolation.
Maria Colina Machado, an opposition leader and Nobel Peace Prize nominee, mentioned previously that many Venezuelans fleeing the regime may return home once Maduro is ousted. She pointed out, “It’s devastating for us that this regime has intentionally tried to drive millions of Venezuelans away.” She believes a large number will come back the moment Maduro steps down.
Military Buildup
There are currently eight U.S. warships in the region, a number set to increase to 14 with over 10,000 troops following the announcement of deploying the USS Gerald R. Ford and a destroyer strike group.
The USS Ford, along with five guided missile destroyers, departed Europe recently and is expected in the Caribbean by the end of the week.
The military buildup commenced over two months ago, starting with seven warships, including three guided missile destroyers and a nuclear-powered submarine, arriving near Venezuela’s waters on August 29.
These ships have conducted at least 14 attacks on suspected drug smuggling operations, resulting in over 60 alleged narco-terrorists killed. Trump expressed, “I’ve been lucky.” He acknowledged the tragedy of the actions but noted they prevented further drug-related casualties in the U.S.
In addition to naval forces, a variety of military aircraft are operating in the area. This buildup marks the most substantial U.S. military presence in the Caribbean since the 1989 invasion of Panama.
The operations are primarily centered around Roosevelt Roads, a naval base in Puerto Rico, which is being upgraded for renewed strategic use.
Construction activities began in September to prepare the site for military operations. Secretary of the Army Pete Hegseth deployed advanced F-35 fighter jets to Puerto Rico, further enhancing the military’s presence.
What Lies Ahead?
The implications of this military mobilization remain uncertain. Trump refrained from discussing potential airstrikes on Venezuela, stating he doesn’t disclose operational plans to the media.
Recently, he indicated that targeting Venezuela-based drug cartels could extend beyond maritime efforts. “Now that we have conquered the seas, we are certainly looking to land,” he commented.
While addressing the possibility of conflict, Trump admitted to having “questions” about whether the U.S. would engage in war with Venezuela, suggesting that change in leadership might occur without full military conflict.
