Five US F-35 jets land in Puerto Rico amid rising tensions with Venezuela
The deployment follows President Donald Trump’s order last week to send ten F-35s to the Caribbean as part of a broader military buildup aimed at countering drug cartels.
September 14, 2025 10:43 AM IST
First published on: Sep 14, 2025 at 10:43 AM IST
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The F-35s are among the world’s most advanced combat aircraft. (AP Photo)
Five US F-35 fighter jets were seen landing in Puerto Rico on Saturday, Reuters reported, at the former Roosevelt Roads military base in Ceiba. In recent days, helicopters, Osprey aircraft, transport planes and US personnel have also been observed at the site.
The deployment follows President Donald Trump’s order last week to send ten F-35s to the Caribbean as part of a broader military buildup aimed at countering drug cartels. Earlier this week, US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and a top US general made a surprise visit to Puerto Rico to review operations.
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When asked about the arrival of the jets, a Pentagon duty press officer told Reuters: “We have no force posture changes to announce currently.”
Trump rules out regime change
Reuters previously reported that the jets were tasked with counter-narcotics operations. While announcing the plan, Trump clarified the move was not intended to bring about regime change in Venezuela.
Last week, the US military carried out its first known strike since the buildup, killing 11 people aboard a Venezuelan vessel it said was transporting narcotics. Venezuelan officials disputed the claim, saying none of the dead were drug traffickers.
Venezuela accuses US of ‘hostile’ boarding
On Saturday, Venezuela’s government said a US destroyer intercepted and occupied a tuna fishing vessel for eight hours in the country’s Special Economic Zone. Caracas described the boarding as “illegal” and “hostile,” adding that the ship was crewed by nine “humble” and “harmless” fishermen.
According to Al Jazeera, Venezuela’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the vessel was stopped on Friday by the USS Jason Dunham (DDG-109). US officials have not immediately responded to the allegation.
The arrival of the F-35s adds to a growing US military presence in the region. The stealth fighters are among the world’s most advanced combat aircraft and would provide a decisive edge against Venezuela’s air force.
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The F-35s are among the world’s most advanced combat aircraft. (AP Photo) 
