B-1 bombers flew near Venezuela on Thursday as part of the United States’ ongoing efforts to combat drug trafficking from the country. The aircraft took off from Dyess Air Force Base in Texas and flew within approximately 50 miles of Venezuela, remaining over international waters.
During a White House panel discussion, President Trump was asked about the bomber flights. He denied the reports, calling them "not accurate." However, he acknowledged the U.S. government’s concerns regarding Venezuela, particularly in relation to drug trafficking.
The bombers’ flights followed previous military exercises, where B-52 bombers and F-35B jet fighters were also deployed near Venezuela. The U.S. military has recently targeted drug boats in the Caribbean, destroying at least seven vessels believed to be transporting drugs to the U.S. Additionally, Trump has accused the governments of Venezuela and Colombia of facilitating this drug trade.
Trump stated that military actions have significantly reduced drug shipments to the U.S. but warned that drug trafficking is now occurring over land. He hinted at the possibility of future military strikes against drug cartels and narco-terrorists operating on land.
Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro responded to these developments by claiming that his country is equipped with thousands of Russian-made anti-air missiles to defend against any aerial threats. He asserted that Venezuela possesses no less than 5,000 Igla-S missiles.
Last week, Trump indicated that Maduro had offered "everything" to the U.S., suggesting that the Venezuelan leader is eager to avoid conflict with the United States.
