NEW: F-35s deployed as Trump ramps up war on cartels, drugs

Venezuelan dictator Nicolás Maduro is attempting to rally his population against the United States by calling for an 8 million-strong militia, a claim experts deem unrealistic given the country's declining population and widespread dissent. Meanwhile, the U.S. is increasing its military presence in the Caribbean, deploying stealth fighter jets and naval assets, signaling a firm stance against drug trafficking and the Maduro regime. This show of force is intended to disrupt illicit activities, pressure Maduro's inner circle, and potentially facilitate his removal.

• Maduro's Militia Claims Debunked: Experts question the legitimacy of Nicolás Maduro's claim of an 8 million-strong militia, citing Venezuela's reduced population due to a refugee crisis and low public support for the regime.
• U.S. Military Presence in Caribbean: The United States has deployed 10 F-35 fighter jets to Puerto Rico and a fleet of destroyers with 4,000 Marines to the Caribbean.
• Combating Drug Trafficking: The U.S. military presence is aimed at preventing drug shipments, particularly those carrying fentanyl, from reaching American shores.
• Pressure on the Maduro Regime: The deployment serves as a significant pressure tactic against the Maduro regime, disrupting their ability to fund themselves through illicit activities like oil smuggling.
• Facilitating Regime Change: The increased U.S. presence may also encourage individuals within Maduro's inner circle to turn him in, especially with a $50 million reward offered.

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Maduro's Militia Claims Debunked [1:11]

• Experts assess Maduro's claim of an 8 million-strong militia as unrealistic, pointing to simple math and the significant portion of the Venezuelan population that has fled the country.
• The Venezuelan population has decreased significantly, with around 25% of the population having escaped the country.
• In the last election in July 2024, which Maduro allegedly stole, he received approximately 3 million votes, raising questions about the number of people willing to die for him.
• The militia is described as a "joke," with social media users in Venezuela finding amusement in pictures of the militia.

By looking at the numbers, we know this is not real. Mad is desperate and he's desperate because he knows he's facing the most powerful country in the world.