The U.S. is deploying 10 F-35 fighter jets to Puerto Rico as part of a crackdown on drug cartels, confirmed on September 5, 2025. This move comes amid rising tensions with Venezuela over drug trafficking and recent U.S. strikes against suspected traffickers.
- U.S. deploying 10 F-35 fighter jets to Puerto Rico
- Deployment aims to target drug cartels in Caribbean
- Rising tensions with Venezuela over drug trade
- U.S. ships deployed off Venezuela's coast
- Venezuelan F-16s conducted a "show of force" flyover
- Trump advocates military action against Latin American cartels
On September 5, 2025, the U.S. announced the deployment of 10 F-35 fighter jets to Puerto Rico for operations against drug cartels. The move follows increased U.S. efforts in the Caribbean, including deploying three guided-missile destroyers near Venezuela. Tensions with Venezuela escalated after two Venezuelan F-16s flew over a U.S. ship, the USS Dunham, as a show of force. President Trump has pushed for military action to combat drug trafficking, which fuels fentanyl and other illegal drugs entering U.S. cities.
- The U.S. is deploying 10 F-35 jets to Puerto Rico for drug enforcement efforts.
- This follows the recent deployment of three destroyers off Venezuela’s coast.
- Venezuela responded with F-16 flyovers over a U.S. vessel, signaling increased tensions.
- President Trump advocates using military force to fight drug trafficking and fentanyl flow.
The deployment reflects a strategic effort to curb drug trafficking in the Caribbean and counter regional threats. The move may escalate regional tensions but aims to disrupt drug cartel operations.
Further developments are expected as the U.S. continues its military and diplomatic efforts in the region.
