Venezuela fears possible US military strike

Venezuela has voiced alarm over a potential threat to its sovereignty amid growing fears of a US military strike, following Washington’s deployment of F-35 fighter jets to Puerto Rico, reports Reuters.

According to US media reports on Friday (5 September), Washington may be preparing operations against drug cartels accused of operating from Venezuelan territory. Officials said at least 10 aircraft are being stationed on the island, describing the groups as “narco-militants.”

Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro condemned the move as a “direct threat,” accusing the US of plotting regime change.

He urged Washington to abandon “plans for violent government change” and called for respect for Venezuela’s “sovereignty, peace and freedom.”

Maduro added that he retained “personal respect” for President Trump and reiterated his willingness to pursue dialogue.

Mr Trump has denied plans to forcibly remove the Venezuelan leader, though he described the country’s recent election as “very strange.”

Maduro was re-elected in January in a disputed vote not recognised by most Western governments and international observers.