Venezuela Deploys Iranian-Designed Drones and Warships Amid U.S. Naval Buildup in Caribbean

Venezuelan Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino López announced the mobilization, including significant drone assets and naval patrols with larger vessels positioned further north in territorial waters.

SOUTH AMERICA — Venezuela has deployed armed drones and warships to patrol its Caribbean coastline following the U.S. dispatch of guided-missile destroyers and other vessels for drug interdiction operations.

An Iranian Qods Mohajer-2 drone at an Iranian Army disaster relief exercise in Lavizan district. Credit: Tasnim News Agency, CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

China, Russia Bolster Influence In Latin America

Mexican Government: 1.39 Million People From Nearly Every Country In The World Traveling To Mexico To Get Into The US Illegally

Venezuela Sets Eyes On Disputed Oil-Rich Territory In Guyana After Applying To Join BRICS Organization, Feuds With Britain

Venezuelan Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino López announced the mobilization, including significant drone assets and naval patrols with larger vessels positioned further north in territorial waters. This response aligns with Venezuelan government statements citing perceived threats from U.S. activities.

Reports from defense sources detail the integration of Iranian technology in these drones, reflecting longstanding bilateral cooperation.

The deployment involves rapid-response units and reinforcements along the Colombian border, with 15,000 troops positioned to secure frontiers. Venezuelan officials have appealed to the United Nations, describing the U.S. presence as a violation of international norms and a risk to regional stability.

Israeli Defense Minister Benny Gantz speaks to a visiting delegation of the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations on Feb. 22, 2022.

Alliances like ALBA-TCP have condemned the moves, calling for immediate cessation. U.S. officials describe the mission as targeting narco-terrorist networks, with no direct confrontations reported.

Venezuela's Drone Program and Iranian Collaboration