Archive · 19 Aug 2025
US Deploys Destroyers and Troops Off Venezuela to Fight Drug Cartels
The US is sending warships and troops to the waters near Venezuela to stop drug cartels that they think are like terrorists.
They're using destroyers, spy planes, and possibly a submarine.
About 4,000 soldiers and sailors are involved.
They plan to watch and possibly attack in international waters.
This is part of the US's plan to fight drugs and secure its borders, as the cartels are considered a security threat.
Three U.S. destroyers, including the USS Gravely, USS Jason Dunham, and USS Sampson, are en route to waters off Venezuela.
The deployment aims to combat threats from Latin American drug cartels, designated as global terrorist organizations.
Approximately 4,000 sailors and Marines will be involved in the mission in the southern Caribbean region.
Additional assets include P-8 spy planes and at least one attack submarine.
Operations will occur in international waters and airspace, planned to last for several months.
- Who
- The U.S. military, including sailors, Marines, and intelligence assets.
- What
- The U.S. is deploying warships and troops near Venezuela.
- When
- Deployment is ongoing and planned for several months.
- Where
- Off the coast of Venezuela, in international waters and airspace.
- Why
- To address threats from Latin American drug cartels.
- Ships Involved
- USS Gravely, USS Jason Dunham, USS Sampson
- Troop Count
- Approximately 4,000
- Additional Assets
- P-8 spy planes, attack submarine
- Mission Purpose
- Counter-narcotics operations, address threats from drug cartels
- Deployment Area
- Southern Caribbean region
