US Conducts Major Amphibious Drills in Caribbean

The US Navy and Marine Corps have deployed amphibious exercises south of Puerto Rico with a scenario of a marine landing.

The exercises are being conducted as part of a wider operation to strengthen positions in the Caribbean region and are aimed against transnational drug networks linked to the regime of Nicolás Maduro.

The exercises, led by the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Brigade, involve the amphibious assault helicopter carrier USS Iwo Jima and its escort ships.

The exercises coincided with the transfer of large military forces to the Caribbean Sea area: at least eight warships, aviation units, and one submarine.

According to experts, the demonstrative strengthening of US military activity underscores the growing tensions around Venezuela and signals Washington's readiness for decisive action in the region.