Overview
- Secretary of War Pete Hegseth announced Operation Southern Spear led by a joint task force and U.S. Southern Command, saying President Trump ordered action.
- The USS Gerald R. Ford carrier strike group arrived in the region this week, expanding a deployment that includes destroyers, fighter aircraft and special operations units.
- Trump was briefed on updated military options that include potential strikes inside Venezuela, according to multiple reports, though no decision has been made.
- Venezuela mobilized forces and civilians, with Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino reporting 200,000 troops on exercises, as officials warned of 'incalculable' regional consequences.
- U.S. forces have conducted about 20 lethal interdictions on suspected drug boats, leaving roughly 80 dead, including four announced Thursday, drawing criticism from UN officials and regional governments.