Venezuela is not US territory, but Washington says its interests are threatened by drug trafficking and hostile forces. On Sept 3, 2025, the Pentagon said two Venezuelan planes harassed a US Navy ship in the Caribbean.

The US accuses Venezuela of being a cocaine hub, tied to cartels and armed groups.

The UN Office on Drugs and Crime estimates over 70% of global cocaine comes from Latin America.

Washington frames its naval deployments as about regional security and shipping lane protection.

The latest incident comes as Caracas deepens ties with Moscow and Beijing.