Overview
- The U.S. has deployed the USS Gerald R. Ford and expanded forces near Venezuela while continuing lethal strikes on suspected drug-trafficking vessels.
- Russia publicly affirmed support for Caracas and said it is ready to “react,” but analysts say distance and war-related constraints limit its ability to counter U.S. moves.
- The Washington Post reported Maduro requested Russian air-defense assistance in a letter, and a Russian Il‑76 transport recently landed in Caracas with its cargo unknown.
- President Trump has offered mixed signals on possible strikes inside Venezuela, as Washington continues to cite a 2020 drug indictment and a $50 million reward targeting Maduro.
- Energy analysis outlines scenarios from limited strikes to a sustained campaign that could disrupt ports and upgraders, tighten heavy‑sour supplies, and push diesel prices higher.