What to know about the US warships sent to South America and the reaction in Venezuela
August 28, 2025
The United States is boosting its maritime force in the waters off Venezuela to combat threats from Latin American drug cartels, with the expected arrival of more vessels to the area next week. That action will undoubtedly fuel more speculation among Venezuelans, their government and its political opposition. Analysts say the move is not a sign of an impending invasion. But the government has capitalized on the deployment by urging people to join a militia. Meanwhile, the opposition sees it as a sign of President Nicolás Maduro’s weakening grip on power.