Venezuela Deploys Military Might Amid Escalating US Tensions Over Caribbean Waters

Venezuela Launches Military Drills Amid US Tensions CARACAS, Venezuela (AP) - The Venezuelan military has begun a three-day exercise on the Caribbean island of La Orchila, amid escalating tensions with the United States over alleged anti-drug operations in the region. The drills, which started on Tuesday, involve both conventional and electronic warfare units, according to Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino López. "We are taking necessary measures to protect our sovereignty and territorial integrity," he said during a meeting with the military high command in Caracas. The exercises come after Washington launched airstrikes against alleged drug boats in Venezuelan waters earlier this month, resulting in the destruction of at least two Venezuelan vessels and the deaths of 14 people allegedly involved in narcotics trafficking. The US operation was condemned by UN experts as "excessive" and a violation of international law. "We are not going to allow foreign powers to dictate our security policies," Padrino López said, citing what he described as a threatening and vulgar voice emanating from Washington. He did not elaborate on the nature of the alleged threats or provide evidence to support his claims. The US has maintained that its operation was aimed at disrupting drug trafficking networks in the region, which have long been a concern for both countries. However, Venezuelan officials have accused Washington of using the anti-drug campaign as a pretext for military intervention and regime change. The situation has sparked concerns among regional leaders, with some calling for calm and restraint. "We urge all parties to exercise maximum prudence and respect for international law," said a spokesperson for the Organization of American States (OAS). As tensions continue to simmer, analysts say the Venezuelan military drills are likely aimed at demonstrating the country's capabilities and commitment to defending its sovereignty. "This is a message to Washington that Venezuela will not be intimidated or bullied into submission," said a Caracas-based expert on regional security. The current situation has also raised questions about the role of the US in the region, with some critics accusing Washington of overstepping its authority. "The US needs to respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of other nations, rather than imposing its own agenda," said a UN human rights expert. As the military exercises continue on La Orchila, attention is focused on how the situation will unfold in the coming days. The Venezuelan government has vowed to protect its interests and maintain stability in the region, while Washington remains committed to disrupting drug trafficking networks. Background: The US-Venezuela relationship has been strained for years, with both countries engaging in a series of diplomatic and economic disputes. In recent months, tensions have escalated over alleged anti-drug operations in Venezuelan waters, which have resulted in the destruction of several vessels and the deaths of numerous individuals. Additional Perspectives: The OAS has called on all parties to exercise maximum prudence and respect for international law. UN experts have condemned the US operation as "excessive" and a violation of international law. Regional leaders are urging calm and restraint in the face of escalating tensions. Current Status: The Venezuelan military drills continue on La Orchila, with both conventional and electronic warfare units involved. The situation remains tense, with Washington maintaining its commitment to disrupting drug trafficking networks and Venezuela vowing to protect its sovereignty and territorial integrity. *Reporting by Theguardian.*