Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the recent military actions taken by the United States against drug trafficking in the Caribbean, particularly targeting Venezuela, highlighting the strategic implications behind these actions and the regional responses to them [1][3][6]. Group 1: U.S. Military Actions - On October 18, President Trump announced that U.S. military forces destroyed a large submarine carrying drugs, marking the first incident with survivors since the U.S. began military actions against drug trafficking in the region [1][3]. - The U.S. has conducted at least six military operations against "drug boats" in international waters off Venezuela since September, with claims of sinking five vessels and killing 27 traffickers [4][6]. - The U.S. has significantly increased its military presence in the Caribbean, deploying destroyers, F-35 fighter jets, a nuclear submarine, and approximately 6,500 troops [4][6]. Group 2: Venezuela's Response - Venezuela is on high alert in response to U.S. military actions, with Defense Minister Lopez stating the need for preparedness against potential military aggression from the U.S. [5][6]. - President Maduro has called for citizens to join militia organizations and initiated the "Independence 200 Plan" to coordinate local military and civilian efforts to protect critical infrastructure [7]. - The Venezuelan government has condemned U.S. actions as violations of international law and an infringement on its sovereignty, with regional allies expressing solidarity with Venezuela [7]. Group 3: Strategic Implications - Analysts suggest that the U.S. military deployments under the guise of drug enforcement may have ulterior motives, including regime change in Venezuela [6][7]. - Reports indicate that Venezuela is not a primary source of drugs entering the U.S., raising questions about the true objectives of U.S. military actions in the region [6][7]. - The authorization of covert CIA operations in Venezuela has drawn widespread condemnation from Latin American countries, emphasizing the geopolitical tensions in the region [7].