Tensions Rise As US Sends World’s Largest Aircraft Carrier USS Gerald R Ford Near Venezuela

Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has accused the United States of “fabricating a war,” following the deployment of the USS Gerald R Ford—the world’s largest aircraft carrier—towards the Caribbean.

Maduro told state media, “They promised they would never again get involved in a war, and they are fabricating a war,” as reported by the BBC.

According to reports, US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth ordered the USS Gerald R Ford—capable of carrying up to 90 aircraft—to move from the Mediterranean to the Caribbean on Friday.

The move signals a significant escalation of American military presence near Venezuelan waters.

The US has also expanded its presence in the region by deploying warships, fighter jets, bombers, marines, drones, and CIA operatives, claiming it to be part of a counter-narcotics campaign, the BBC reported.

US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth confirmed that multiple airstrikes had been conducted against vessels allegedly transporting narcotics.

One such strike on Friday reportedly killed six people linked to Venezuela’s Tren de Aragua criminal organisation.

While Washington maintains these operations are part of its anti-narcotics initiative, critics argue they serve to intimidate Maduro’s administration and raise questions over their legality.

Over the past two months, the US has steadily built up a formidable force in the Caribbean—comprising warships, B-52 bombers performing “bomber attack demonstrations,” F-35 fighter jets, drones, and covert CIA personnel—indicating sustained military pressure on Caracas.

Washington has also offered a $50 million reward for information leading to Nicolás Maduro’s arrest.

The recent US military actions have sparked regional outrage and bipartisan concern in the US Congress.

Lawmakers from both parties have questioned the legal justification of the strikes, raising alarms over whether the president has exceeded his constitutional authority.

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