Venezuela’s Defense Minister, General Vladimir Padrino, denounced the presence of five U.S. combat planes detected near the nation’s Caribbean coast, calling it a direct threat to national security. Speaking from a military air base on Thursday, Padrino described the incident as a “provocation” by Washington, noting that the aircraft were first reported by an airline to a control tower. His comments were broadcast on state television, where he warned that such actions put regional stability at risk.
According to Venezuela’s government, Colombian airline Avianca relayed the sighting of the planes roughly 75 kilometers (47 miles) from Venezuelan territory. The statement accused the United States of engaging in “reckless and warmongering” behavior, demanding that U.S. Secretary of War Peter Hegseth put an immediate end to such military maneuvers. Avianca has not publicly responded to the claim.
The Pentagon has also remained silent, offering no official response. The incident follows heightened tensions in the Caribbean, where the United States has deployed warships under the justification of combating drug trafficking. Washington has reported sinking several boats allegedly transporting narcotics from Venezuela, leading to casualties at sea.
President Nicolás Maduro has consistently argued that the U.S. seeks regime change in Caracas, even as he maintains openness to dialogue with American envoy Richard Grenell. Meanwhile, former President Donald Trump repeatedly denied pursuing regime change but accused Maduro of orchestrating drug trafficking operations, allegations that the Venezuelan leader strongly rejects.
The Venezuelan government has framed the latest airspace incursion as further evidence of U.S. aggression, underscoring the fragile relations between the two countries. With the Caribbean increasingly becoming a hotspot for military posturing, the standoff highlights how Venezuela views U.S. military activity as a threat not only to its sovereignty but also to regional peace.