USS Gerald R Ford: US Deploys Advanced Aircraft Carrier to Caribbean Amid Escalating Anti-Drug Operations

Nov 17, 2025 10:29 am CST

The USS Gerald R Ford, America's most advanced aircraft carrier, has arrived in the Caribbean Sea as part of Operation Southern Spear, significantly expanding US military presence in the region. With nearly a dozen Navy ships and approximately 12,000 personnel, this deployment occurs amid ongoing US strikes against suspected drug-trafficking vessels that have resulted in 83 fatalities since September. While the Trump administration maintains this is a counter-narcotics mission, many view it as increasing pressure on Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro's government.