US B-1B Bomber Flight Near Venezuela Sparks Regional Tensions

A United States B-1B bomber conducted a flight over the Caribbean Sea off the coast of Venezuela. This event occurred on Thursday, according to flight tracking data. It marks the second such show of force by US military aircraft in a single week.

The flight comes amid a wider US military campaign in the region targeting alleged drug traffickers. This deployment has heightened tensions with Caracas, where officials fear the ultimate goal is regime change.

Flight Path and Official Denial

Data from the tracking service Flightradar24 showed the B-1B’s path. The aircraft flew toward the Venezuelan coast on Wednesday afternoon. It then executed a U-turn and headed north before disappearing from public tracking view.

When asked about reports of the bomber flight, former President Donald Trump denied it occurred. He stated the reporting was “false” during a White House event. Trump added that the United States is “not happy with Venezuela for a lot of reasons.”

Broader Military Context and Regional Impact

This latest flight follows a similar mission about a week prior. US-based B-52 bombers circled off Venezuela’s coast for several hours at that time. The US military described those operations as demonstrations of commitment to deterrence and crew readiness.

The United States has deployed various assets, including stealth warplanes and Navy ships, for its counter-narcotics efforts. Regional tensions have flared significantly as a result. Venezuela has accused the US of plotting to overthrow President Nicolas Maduro.

The repeated US bomber flights off Venezuela underscore a period of intense military posturing. This activity continues to strain diplomatic relations and fuel regional instability. The situation remains a focal point for international security observers.

Info at your fingertips

What is the US military’s stated reason for these flights?

The US military describes these missions as a commitment to deterring adversary threats. They also aim to enhance crew training and ensure global force readiness.

How has Venezuela responded to these flights?

Venezuela has accused the United States of plotting to overthrow its government. President Maduro has also claimed his country possesses Russian-made missiles to counter US forces.

Was this the first such flight recently?

No, this was the second show of force in a week. US B-52 bombers conducted a similar flight off the Venezuelan coast just days earlier.

What is the broader US campaign in the region?

Washington is carrying out a military campaign against alleged drug traffickers. This has involved deploying ships and aircraft for counter-narcotics operations.

How many people have been killed in the US strikes?

According to an AFP tally based on US figures, the strikes have killed at least 37 people. The targets have included boats and a semi-submersible vessel.

Trusted Sources

Flightradar24, Reuters, Associated Press