突发！美国，发动空袭！

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the escalating military tensions between the United States and Venezuela, highlighting the deployment of U.S. military assets and Venezuela's defensive measures in response to perceived threats [2][4][5]. Military Deployment - The U.S. military is utilizing MQ-9 Reaper drones, F-35 fighter jets, and AC-130J gunships near the Venezuelan coast to target suspected drug trafficking vessels, indicating a readiness for potential military action against Venezuela [2][4]. - Since September, the U.S. has conducted 19 airstrikes, destroying 20 vessels and killing 76 individuals involved in drug trafficking operations [4]. Venezuela's Response - Venezuela's military has conducted significant exercises, including the "Independence 200 Plan," and has successfully shot down an unauthorized aircraft attempting to enter its airspace [7][8]. - The Venezuelan military claims to have destroyed 24 illegal aircraft this year, emphasizing its commitment to maintaining national sovereignty and security [8]. Political Context - The U.S. Senate's recent rejection of a ban on military action against Venezuela has effectively provided a legal green light for potential strikes, raising concerns about regional stability and humanitarian crises [5]. - Venezuela is seeking assistance from countries like Russia to bolster its defense capabilities, including upgrading radar and missile systems [5]. International Relations - U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio denied reports of the UK halting intelligence sharing regarding drug trafficking vessels, asserting that U.S. military actions remain unaffected [11]. - The UK's decision to pause intelligence sharing reflects growing concerns about the legality of U.S. military operations in Latin America, indicating a potential rift between the U.S. and its closest allies [11].