Increased military mobilization, failed negotiations and persistent aggressive rhetoric amid broader geopolitical, ideological and economic goals indicate that the United States will most likely escalate its military campaign in the Caribbean to attacks in Venezuelan territory over the coming days or weeks. Since October, the United States has increased its military presence in the Caribbean, especially with the Nov. 16 arrival of the USS Gerald Ford, the world's largest aircraft carrier. The U.S. military has also continued to conduct attacks against alleged drug trafficking boats in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific, which have reached a total of 23 strikes, killing 87 people. Media leaks revealed that in the first of such operations, on Sept. 2, the U.S. military carried out a follow-up strike, potentially killing survivors. The allegations have sparked controversy within the United States, prompting investigations in Congress and raising concerns about the potential commitment of war crimes. Despite...
