Venezuela has issued a startling warning about an alleged US-led "false flag attack" in the Caribbean, accusing the Central Intelligence Agency of orchestrating military provocations as American naval forces approach the region.
Naval Movements Spark Diplomatic Firestorm
The controversy erupted as the USS George Washington aircraft carrier strike group began its journey toward Trinidad and Tobago waters. Venezuelan authorities immediately sounded alarms, claiming the deployment represents more than routine military exercises.
Venezuelan Deputy Minister of Anti-Blockade Policies William Castillo Castillo made explosive claims on social media platform X, stating: "We have learned about a false flag attack orchestrated by the CIA and (Southern Command) to justify aggression against Venezuela."
Historical Context of US-Venezuela Tensions
The current confrontation unfolds against a backdrop of longstanding political friction between Caracas and Washington. Relations have been particularly strained since the Trump administration intensified sanctions against Nicolas Maduro's government.
Castillo specifically referenced what he called "the same methods used to justify the Iraq war" - a clear reference to the controversial weapons of mass destruction claims that preceded the 2003 invasion.
Regional Implications and Security Concerns
The Venezuelan warning comes at a particularly sensitive time for regional security. The Caribbean has become an increasingly important strategic theater, with multiple international powers maintaining active military interests in the area.
Venezuelan officials have positioned their government as vigilant against foreign intervention, urging regional allies to view the US naval movements with similar suspicion. The rhetoric reflects Caracas's ongoing efforts to position itself as a defender of regional sovereignty against what it characterizes as US imperialism.
International Response and Next Steps
As of current reporting, US authorities have not issued formal responses to Venezuela's specific allegations. However, military analysts note that carrier deployments to the Caribbean are not unprecedented, though the timing and Venezuelan reaction suggest escalating diplomatic temperatures.
The situation remains fluid, with regional observers closely monitoring whether other Caribbean nations will comment on the Venezuelan allegations or the US naval presence near Trinidad and Tobago.
