In late October 2025, the U.S. Navy significantly enhanced its Caribbean presence with the deployment of the USS Gettysburg and the USS Gerald R. Ford carrier strike group, aiming to combat Venezuelan narcotics networks linked to the Maduro regime. This buildup includes various naval assets and reconnaissance capabilities focused on disrupting drug trafficking organizations designated as terrorist groups. While the U.S. conducts joint military exercises with regional allies to bolster security cooperation, Venezuela has condemned these actions as provocative. The strategic escalation underscores the U.S. commitment to protecting national interests and addressing the challenges posed by the Maduro government amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions in the region. This situation reflects broader implications for U.S. foreign policy and regional stability.