Trump Warns Venezuelan Jets Will Be Shot Down If They Endanger US Ships
President Donald Trump issued a stern warning on Friday that Venezuelan military jets flying near U.S. naval vessels could be shot down if they pose a threat to American forces. The remarks came after two Venezuelan F-16 aircraft flew near the USS Jason Dunham in the Caribbean, a move the Pentagon described as “highly provocative.” Officials confirmed that U.S. commanders now have the authority to open fire if necessary. The U.S. has also deployed F-35 stealth fighter jets to Puerto Rico to strengthen its presence in the region.
Military Build-Up Escalates Amid Rising Tensions
The deployment of at least 10 F-35 fighter jets to Puerto Rico is part of a wider military build-up near Venezuela, which already includes warships and additional personnel. Trump said the measures were necessary to counter increasingly bold actions by Venezuelan forces in the Caribbean. The situation highlights growing tensions between Washington and Caracas, with the U.S. signaling a stronger stance against potential threats in the region.
