U.S. Military Drill Over Caracas Raises Tensions in Venezuela

The United States military carried out a military drill over Caracas on Saturday, marking the first U.S. military exercise in Venezuela since American forces launched an operation on January 3 that resulted in the capture of President Nicolas Maduro and First Lady Cilia Flores. Venezuelan officials claim the earlier attack left at least 100 people dead, intensifying political tensions across the country.

According to the Venezuelan government, the latest operation was approved as an evacuation exercise designed to prepare for possible medical emergencies or natural disasters. The drill involved two MV-22B Osprey aircraft landing near the U.S. embassy in Caracas, while military vessels also entered Venezuelan waters in the Caribbean Sea.

The U.S. embassy stated that Washington remains committed to implementing President Donald Trump’s three-phase strategy focused on the “stabilization of Venezuela.” Francis Donovan, commander of the U.S. Southern Command, traveled aboard one of the aircraft and met with members of Venezuela’s interim government during the visit.

Residents in Caracas expressed concern over the visible U.S. military presence in the capital. Evelyn Rebolledo, a local administrator, said the flights created uncertainty among citizens already dealing with political instability and social unrest.

The Trump administration has openly supported the administration led by Delcy Rodriguez, Maduro’s former vice president. The interim government has introduced measures aimed at opening Venezuela’s oil reserves and mining sector to U.S. investment, a move that continues to divide public opinion.

Meanwhile, Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado addressed supporters at a rally in Panama City, promising to continue efforts to challenge Maduro’s legacy. Machado, widely viewed by supporters as the rightful winner of the disputed 2024 Venezuelan election, said her return to Venezuela could happen soon and hinted at major political developments ahead.