Chile expresses ‘deep concern’ over US military deployment in the Caribbean.
The Chilean government issued an official statement regarding the deployment of the USS Gerald R. Ford, the largest US aircraft carrier, to Caribbean waters. This carrier is carrying more than 4,000 sailors and numerous tactical aircraft.
In the statement from the Chilean Foreign Ministry, Chile reiterated its commitment to international law, emphasizing the importance of respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of states, peacefully resolving disputes, prohibiting the threat or use of force, and upholding human rights as fundamental principles for coexistence among nations.
The statement also highlighted the need for a coordinated response to the threat of transnational organized crime by enhancing cooperation and joint action in various multilateral forums. In this context, Chile affirmed that “Latin America and the Caribbean must remain a zone of peace.”
For over two months, the US military has deployed a fleet of warships, fighter jets, bombers, Marines, drones, and surveillance planes to the Caribbean. Long-range B-52 bombers have conducted strike missions off the coast of Venezuela.
As tensions between Washington and Caracas escalate, US President Donald Trump has authorized the deployment and operation of CIA forces in Venezuela. The US claims to have killed dozens of individuals in attacks on small boats from Venezuela that were allegedly carrying “drugs” and “narco-terrorists”; however, they have not provided concrete evidence or details regarding the identities of those on board.
According to the US military, the operation, which started in early November, has resulted in the sinking of 20 ships and the deaths of 75 people, with one individual still reported missing.ps and the deaths of 75 people, with one individual still reported missing.