In a tense escalation of military activity, Venezuela has once again flown military aircraft in proximity to the USS Jason Dunham, an Aegis guided-missile destroyer, in international waters off the coast of South America. Multiple officials from the Defense Department confirmed this incident to CBS News on Friday, describing the situation as a precarious game of chicken. The latest aerial maneuvers took place overnight Thursday, when the Venezuelan aircraft, reportedly F-16 fighter jets, flew over the USS Dunham.
While it remains unclear whether these aircraft were armed during the encounter, officials indicated that the jets were within weapons range of both the aircraft and the naval vessel. This incident marks the second such occurrence within just two days, heightening tensions in an already volatile region. Earlier on Thursday, two additional F-16 fighter jets had also flown over the USS Dunham, prompting the Pentagon to label the actions as highly provocative, aiming to disrupt U.S. counter narco-terror operations.
The USS Jason Dunham is part of a larger flotilla of U.S. warships that have been deployed to the region in recent weeks. According to the Pentagon, this naval presence is specifically aimed at targeting criminal organizations and combating narco-terrorism. The situation has drawn significant attention, especially in light of President Trump’s remarks, who warned that Venezuela could face serious consequences for such provocative actions. "If they fly in a dangerous position," Trump stated, "I would say that…you or your captains can make the decision as to what they want to do," referring to military leaders including Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and General Dan Caine, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.
This incident follows a recent U.S. military operation that targeted a boat allegedly involved in drug trafficking from Venezuela. The White House reported that the strike resulted in the deaths of 11 individuals and was linked to the Tren de Aragua gang, which has been designated as a foreign terrorist organization by the U.S. government. Such military actions underscore the ongoing efforts by the Trump administration to combat drug-related violence and terrorism emanating from Venezuela.
The situation remains fluid as both nations navigate this delicate military standoff. The international community is closely monitoring these developments, as further provocations could escalate tensions not only between the U.S. and Venezuela but also within the broader geopolitical landscape of South America.
