The arrival of the USS Gerald R. Ford, the world’s largest aircraft carrier, in Latin America has heightened military tensions in the region, sparking fears of a potential conflict with Venezuela. The vessel, part of a US Naval Forces Southern Command deployment, entered the area on Tuesday, following orders issued nearly three weeks ago to combat drug trafficking. However, Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has accused the US of fabricating a pretext for war, vowing that Venezuela is prepared to defend its sovereignty. Maduro emphasized the nation’s readiness for an armed struggle to protect its legacy. The US has conducted strikes on approximately 20 vessels in international waters since early September, resulting in at least 76 fatalities. While Washington claims these actions target drug traffickers, no evidence has been provided to substantiate these claims. Human rights experts have condemned the strikes as extrajudicial killings. In response, Colombia’s President Gustavo Petro has suspended intelligence sharing with the US, a decision he announced on X, stating it would remain in effect as long as the missile attacks continue. Similarly, the UK has reportedly ceased intelligence cooperation with the US on suspected drug-trafficking vessels in the Caribbean, citing concerns over the legality of the strikes. A spokesperson for UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer declined to comment on the matter, reiterating the government’s policy of not discussing security or intelligence issues. The escalating military presence and actions in the region have raised alarms over the potential for a broader conflict.