What F-35s and MQ-9s are doing near Venezuela

The U.S. just deployed F-35 stealth fighters and MQ-9 Reaper drones to Puerto Rico. They're officially to support counter-narcotics operations in the Caribbean. But with destroyers, Marines, and even a fast attack submarine already in place, this is starting to look a lot more like a show of force aimed at Venezuela. In this video, we break down what these aircraft actually bring to the fight, how they’re being used, and why this mission is about more than just drug smugglers. We also talk about the recent narco-boat strike, the legal basis behind the Trump administration’s narco-terror directive, and the growing risks of escalation with Nicolás Maduro’s regime. Intro - 00:00-01:07 Ad read - 01:07-2:08 Growing force - 02:08-05:24 Why send them? 05:24-08:14 The boat strike - 08:14-10:41 Escalation - 10:41-15:44 Summary and end - 15:44-18:04