CARACAS, Dec. 6 (Xinhua) -- Washington has increased its military presence in the Caribbean since September, citing counter-narcotics operations as the primary justification. At the same time, senior U.S. officials have publicly reiterated their opposition to the Venezuelan government and their support for political change in the country.

Observers note that the scale, timing, and official statements surrounding the troop deployments suggest the operation may have political implications beyond drug interdiction. Critics argue that such actions risk violating international law, provoking political instability, and heightening tensions in an already fragile regional environment.

Recent U.S. military activities have reportedly included the deployment of an aircraft carrier, aerial patrols near Venezuelan airspace, and remarks by U.S. President Donald Trump interpreted by some analysts as signaling a potential airspace blockade against Venezuela.

According to U.S. media reports, airstrikes conducted against more than 20 vessels suspected of drug trafficking in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific have resulted in over 80 fatalities. United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk has characterized these strikes as "extrajudicial killings," raising international human rights concerns.

The U.S. actions have drawn criticism from several governments in the region, with opponents arguing that they reflect a long-standing interventionist approach toward Latin America. These developments have also raised regional alarm over the possibility of broader military escalation.

Disturbingly, the current approach by Washington could establish a precedent for unilateral military action under the banner of counter-narcotics enforcement.

Some observers in the region also interpret the pressure on Venezuela as part of a broader strategy intended to deter independent policy paths among countries in the region. Venezuela has remained a focus of U.S. foreign policy through a combination of sanctions, diplomatic isolation, and now expanded military activities.

Venezuela's political future should be determined by its own people without external coercion. From this perspective, efforts to influence domestic politics through pressure or the threat of force lack international legitimacy and will prove ineffective.

It is a growing view among the international community that long-term regional stability depends on adherence to the principles of respect for sovereignty, non-interference, and peaceful coexistence. Any approach that erodes these foundations will not bring security -- but deeper division and greater risk for the region as a whole. ■