The U.S. has further beefed up its presence in the Caribbean as it continues to exert pressure on the Venezuelan regime: there are now 10,000 troops deployed in the region, according to a new report. Most are in bases in Puerto Rico.
The New York Times detailed that there are also eight surface warships and a submarine there. Forces have been conducting drills and the U.S. has struck at least four vessels officials claim were carrying drugs that were ultimately set to reach the U.S.
In this context, Venezuela's authoritarian government activated its "Independence Plan 200," a series of drills aimed at protecting strategic assets. "Venezuela is mobilizing in an organized manner," said Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello.
He went on to say that Venezuelans are "peaceful" but warned that they have been "actively" preparing "in all fronts to resist, for as long as needed, from the attacks that want to be conducted on the country."
Authoritarian President Nicolas Maduro, on his end, said the drill involves "27 tasks to accomplish and ensure the protection of La Guaira and Carabobo's Integral Defense Zone."
Venezuelan Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino Lopez also said the U.S. might send special forces to the country to carry out targeted assassinations, as well as sabotages to strategic assets.
"There are many ways to attack and disturb us, not just through a military attack from the Caribbean but also the entry of special forces to carry out disruptive actions, including sabotaging the electrical and gas systems, train tracks, targeted assassinations," Padrino Lopez said during a televised address.
President Donald Trump reportedly ended all diplomatic outreach to the South American country this week, instructing envoy Richard Grenell to cease all efforts as he grows frustrated with Maduro's reluctance to relinquish power.
Trump is also frustrated that Maduro keeps rejecting any ties with drug cartels, The New York Times reported. Officials told the outlet that the administration has drawn up multiple military plans for an eventual escalation.
Qatar is seeking to mediate between the country and maintain open channels of communication, but while Venezuela is embracing the possibility, Trump administration officials have largely dismissed the initiative, favoring military pressure.
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