Pentagon Announces Operation “Southern Spear”

Pentagon launches new operation

Tension rises with Venezuela

Military deployment intensifies

According to the EFE news agency, US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth confirmed the launch of a new military operation called Southern Spear, or Lanza del Sur.

The announcement was made in a message on the social network X, where the official stated that it is an operation tied to the fight against drug trafficking.

Hegseth indicated that the mission will be led by a joint task force operating alongside US Southern Command.

Although he did not elaborate, it is suggested that Southern Spear may encompass the US military deployment in the Caribbean that has expanded since the summer.

Military Tension and Arrival of the USS Gerald Ford

President Trump ordered action — and the Department of War is delivering.

Today, I’m announcing Operation SOUTHERN SPEAR.

Led by Joint Task Force Southern Spear and @SOUTHCOM, this mission defends our Homeland, removes narco-terrorists from our Hemisphere, and secures our…

— Secretary of War Pete Hegseth (@SecWar) November 13, 2025

The announcement came after the arrival of the aircraft carrier USS Gerald Ford in the southern Caribbean, considered the largest in the US fleet.

This carrier, accompanied by its strike group, joined destroyers and amphibious vessels already deployed in the region.

The presence of these units reinforces the perception that the United States has increased military pressure on Venezuela.

The deployment has also coincided with strong statements aimed at Nicolás Maduro, whom the White House labels as “illegitimate.”

Operation Southern Spear and Pentagon Actions

Pentagon Announces Operation “Southern Spear” – PHOTO: SHUTTERSTOCK

At the same time, the Pentagon reported the destruction of around twenty vessels in Caribbean waters and the eastern Pacific.

According to Washington, these boats were carrying illicit drugs, including fentanyl, toward the United States.

Military actions have left roughly 70 people dead in recent months.

Hegseth stated that these operations aim to “expel narco-terrorists from the hemisphere,” under direct orders from President Trump.

Military Expansion and Control of the Western Hemisphere

The US official claimed that drugs produced and transported from Latin America are “killing our people.”

Washington maintains that the Caribbean and areas near Venezuela have become strategic points for drug trafficking.

The deployment of new military units suggests that the Trump administration intends to maintain a strong posture in the region.

Hegseth concluded that the Western Hemisphere is the “neighborhood of the United States” — and that they intend to protect it.