U.S. Military Operations in Latin America: Operation Southern Spear and Regional Security Efforts

The U.S. Navy deployed the aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford to the U.S. Fourth Fleet area on November 11

LATIN AMERICA — The Department of War announced Operation Southern Spear on November 13 to address threats from drug trafficking organizations and strengthen security across the Western Hemisphere.

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This initiative, directed by Joint Task Force Southern Spear under U.S. Southern Command, focuses on disrupting narcotics networks that facilitate the flow of illicit drugs into the United States.

U.S. Southern Command organized joint training exercises with Panamanian security forces in Panama’s jungle terrain from October 8 to 29, emphasizing the exchange of survival skills and refinement of patrol tactics to foster interoperability.

The U.S. Navy deployed the aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford to the U.S. Fourth Fleet area on November 11, positioning it for potential support in regional operations amid ongoing concerns related to Venezuela.

The Venezuelan government faces indictments from the U.S. Southern District of New York for facilitating drug trafficking, enabling such organizations to utilize its territory as a transit point. President Trump participated in the signing of executive orders on November 13, addressing broader hemispheric trade and security frameworks, which align with these counter-narcotics measures.

These actions represent a structured response to persistent challenges to regional stability, including intensified U.S. strikes on suspected drug vessels since mid-August, resulting in over 75 reported fatalities.

Operation Southern Spear Announcement