Tension between US, Venezuela rises with military buildup

(NewsNation) — Tensions continue to rise between the United States and Venezuela amid President Trump’s ongoing efforts to combat drug cartels in Latin America.

The U.S. recently boosted its maritime force in the waters off Venezuela and has more vessels expected to arrive next week.

U.S. defense officials confirmed to NewsNation that seven warships, a nuclear-powered submarine, and more than 4,500 Marines and sailors are either in the region or on their way. This has prompted Venezuela to order 15,000 troops to the country’s border for the approaching ships.

“President Trump has been very clear and consistent,” said White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt. “He’s prepared to use every element of American power to stop drugs from flooding into our country and to bring those responsible to justice.”

Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro calls the U.S. buildup a pretext for invasion. On state television and social media, enlistment drives are being promoted as proof of loyalty to Maduro’s government. But opposition leaders say turnout was minimal.

Columbia, though, is following Venezuela’s lead. The country’s President Gustavo Petro has also ramped up militarization on his side of the border, sending roughly 25,000 troops into the Catatumbo region to fight mafias and secure cooperation.

“I know stories, incredible stories of people whose grandmothers were recruited to this militia, which were 70 years old,” said immigration attorney Rolando Vasquez. “You can be any age, any sex. It doesn’t matter. There’s no requirement.”

The U.S. has already positioned two guided-missile destroyers in the Caribbean, while two other military boats are operating in the Pacific off Latin America.