Tensions between the United States and Venezuela have intensified as U.S. forces significantly increase their presence in the Caribbean.

The deployment includes at least five F-35B fighter jets, helicopters, V-22 Ospreys, and military personnel at Puerto Rico's former Roosevelt Roads base—now the José Aponte de la Torre Airport—alongside a naval force of multiple destroyers, amphibious ships, and a nuclear-powered submarine.

Newsweek has reached out to the U.S. State Department and Venezuela's Foreign Ministry for comment.

Why It Matters

The U.S. deployment underscores what the White House says is growing concern over drug trafficking and regional instability, while Venezuela views the escalation as a threat to national sovereignty.

The Caribbean has become a sensitive flashpoint ,

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