Amid rising tensions between the United States and Venezuela, Washington is conducting an unprecedented military buildup in the Caribbean as part of a newly announced military operation named “Southern Spear.” In response, Caracas is preparing through extensive force mobilization and announcing multi-layered defense plans, including armed resistance if necessary. Official statements from both sides reflect a tightened political and security environment, heightening fears of a military confrontation that could go beyond strikes targeting drug trafficking and evolve into an attempt to change Venezuela’s political system.
The U.S. Operation “Southern Spear”: Official Objectives and Vision
U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth announced the launch of a military operation titled “Southern Spear,” led by the Joint Task Force under U.S. Southern Command. The officially stated objective is to combat “narcoterrorist traffickers” and protect the United States from the influx of drugs, which he described as a domestic threat.
However, a report from military sources indicates that the options presented to the president include airstrikes and even ground strikes inside Venezuela, suggesting that intentions may extend beyond counter-trafficking.
Hegseth stated that the operation “aims to eliminate drug-linked terrorists from the Western Hemisphere,” confirming that the order was issued under the president’s direction.
Legally, a classified opinion from the U.S. Department of Justice holds that soldiers involved in naval strikes are shielded from legal prosecution afterward, on the basis that the United States is engaged in a non-international armed conflict—granting the Trump administration broader authority.
This escalation coincides with a significant U.S. naval presence: roughly 12 warships, including an aircraft carrier, and about 15,000 troops have been deployed to the Caribbean, marking the largest U.S. military presence in the region since the 1989 invasion of Panama, according to some sources.
Venezuela’s Response: Full Mobilization and Strong Warnings
Facing the U.S. escalation, Venezuela announced a broad military alert. President Nicolás Maduro ordered the formation of national defense commands and affirmed that the country is prepared to confront the “imperialist threat” from Washington.
Caracas is preparing for a possible war on several fronts—land, sea, river, and air—along with the deployment of missiles and militia units working alongside the army, according to reports.
One of Maduro’s most serious threats is the possibility of guerrilla-style resistance (“prolonged resistance”) if the United States launches a land or air attack.
Caracas also has an alternative strategy known as the “chaos plan,” which relies on intelligence services and armed supporters of the ruling party to create disorder within cities—especially Caracas—to make the country “ungovernable” for foreign forces, according to media reports attributed to official defense planning.
Politically, Maduro rejected U.S. accusations that Venezuela is running an organized drug-trafficking operation and called on the American people to form “an alliance for peace” instead of escalating conflict.
He also signed a decree granting himself expanded security powers, including the ability to mobilize the armed forces and give the military a greater role in sectors such as oil and public services in preparation for any potential military intervention.
International Warnings and Reactions
The intensifying U.S.–Venezuelan standoff has drawn international attention. Iran expressed deep concern and described the U.S. military threats against Venezuela as a “blatant violation” of its sovereignty, urging the United States to respect international law and the UN Charter.
The American actions have also raised questions within Latin American countries and among observers who believe that “Southern Spear” may serve as a political pretext for regime change rather than a genuine counter-narcotics strategy.
Other reports indicate that the military options presented to President Trump included airstrikes inside Venezuelan territory, increasing the risks.
Possible Scenarios and Risks
Limited strikes: The operation could be limited to targeting boats allegedly used in drug trafficking or to demonstrative naval actions, enabling the United States to claim it is fulfilling its objectives without major ground involvement.
Wider intervention: If Washington opts for air or ground strikes, the situation could escalate into a full strategic confrontation, with Venezuelan resistance involving guerrilla warfare or civil unrest.
Regional impact: Any significant escalation could destabilize the Caribbean and Latin America, prompting regional responses; Caracas could also benefit from alliances with countries such as Russia or Iran.
Legal and international risks: U.S. use of force may raise questions of international legality, particularly if strikes extend into international waters or Venezuelan territory, and could draw criticism from the United Nations and other states.
Conclusion
The current U.S. move against Venezuela—embodied in the launch of “Southern Spear” and a major military buildup in the Caribbean—marks a critical turning point in Washington–Caracas relations. What began as a pretext for combating drug trafficking may evolve into geopolitical pressure or even a broader military conflict if actions expand beyond maritime operations. Venezuela, for its part, rejects the U.S. accusations and prepares to defend its sovereignty, warning of prolonged resistance in the event of an air or ground attack. Meanwhile, several countries are watching the escalation with caution, questioning the effectiveness of force in resolving political disputes and whether the United States seeks regime change through military means or political pressure.
BY: Dima Daaboul – Asian Affairs
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