The USS Gerald R. Ford in the eastern Atlantic Ocean on Nov. 5. Photo: Alyssa Joy/DVIDS

US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth announced Operation Southern Spear on Thursday (Nov. 13), citing President Donald Trump’s directive for expanded action against regional narcotics networks. 

In a post on X, Hegseth wrote:

“President Trump ordered action — and the Department of War is delivering.

Today, I’m announcing Operation SOUTHERN SPEAR. Led by Joint Task Force Southern Spear and @SOUTHCOM, this mission defends our Homeland, removes narco-terrorists from our Hemisphere, and secures our Homeland from the drugs that are killing our people. The Western Hemisphere is America’s neighborhood – and we will protect it.”

The announcement comes as Washington increases its naval and air presence across Latin America and the Caribbean.

Key developments:

• Around 20 vessels struck since early September, with at least 76 fatalities, according to US figures.

• A significant US military build-up includes the USS Gerald R. Ford with 15,000 personnel, multiple destroyers, cruisers, amphibious vessels, an attack submarine, and 10 F-35s deployed to Puerto Rico — now a key strategic hub.

• Reports indicate updated US military options for Venezuela, including possible land strikes.

• Venezuela has launched a nationwide deployment, citing fears of a regime-change effort.

Source: FRANCE24

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The USS Gerald R. Ford in the eastern Atlantic Ocean on Nov. 5. Photo: Alyssa Joy/DVIDS
The USS Gerald R. Ford in the eastern Atlantic Ocean on Nov. 5. Photo: Alyssa Joy/DVIDS
US announces ‘Operation Southern Spear’ amid naval buildup in the Caribbean
US announces ‘Operation Southern Spear’ amid naval buildup in the Caribbean
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