“福特”号开进加勒比海，委内瑞拉开展大规模动员应对美航母逼近

Core Viewpoint - The arrival of the USS Ford aircraft carrier strike group in the Caribbean marks the highest level of U.S. military presence in the region in decades, escalating tensions between the U.S. and Venezuela under the pretext of combating drug trafficking [1][3][4]. Military Deployment - The USS Ford strike group, which includes over 4,000 sailors and dozens of tactical aircraft, has been deployed to the Caribbean, enhancing U.S. military capabilities in the region [3]. - The total U.S. military presence in the Caribbean has exceeded 15,000 personnel, representing the largest military buildup in decades [3]. - The deployment is characterized as "extraordinary," with the USS Ford's mission being a rare shift from its originally planned Mediterranean deployment [3]. Venezuela's Response - In response to the U.S. military buildup, Venezuela has initiated a large-scale military exercise involving nearly 200,000 personnel, aimed at enhancing military command and control capabilities [1][5]. - Venezuelan President Maduro has signed a law to establish a comprehensive defense command, indicating preparations for potential armed conflict [5]. International Relations - The U.S. military actions have led to a suspension of intelligence cooperation from Colombia and the UK, reflecting growing skepticism about the legality and motives behind U.S. operations in the region [7]. - Reports indicate that the UK ceased sharing intelligence with the U.S. due to concerns over potential violations of international law [7]. Drug Trafficking Context - Since September, U.S. operations have reportedly sunk around 20 vessels alleged to be involved in drug trafficking, resulting in 76 fatalities [4]. - Despite these actions, experts suggest that attacking Venezuela is unlikely to significantly impact U.S. drug trade, as cocaine primarily originates from Colombia [8].