Story perspectives

US Launches Operation Southern Spear Against Narco-Terrorists

11/14/2025

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Summary

Story summary

The United States launched Operation Southern Spear to target narco-terrorists in the Caribbean and Pacific.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced the operation after the military's 20th attack on a drug-smuggling vessel, which killed four and left no survivors.
Nicolas Maduro, the Venezuelan president, condemned the actions as threats to sovereignty, while analysts say the buildup, including the USS Gerald R. Ford near Venezuela, pressures his government rather than countering trafficking.

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Story summary

The United States launched Operation Southern Spear to target narco-terrorists in the Caribbean and Pacific.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced the operation after the military's 20th attack on a drug-smuggling vessel, which killed four and left no survivors.
Nicolas Maduro, the Venezuelan president, condemned the actions as threats to sovereignty, while analysts say the buildup, including the USS Gerald R. Ford near Venezuela, pressures his government rather than countering trafficking.