Revival of Puerto Rico Naval Base as U.S. Expands Caribbean Military Footprint

A strategically significant naval base in Puerto Rico, dormant for over two decades, has resumed operations as the United States strengthens its military forces in the Caribbean region, primarily in response to the situation in Venezuela.

Initially established during the World War II era, Naval Station Roosevelt Roads ceased its operations in 2004. However, it has now been revived as one of the key five military outposts for U.S. forces on the island, which lies strategically north of Venezuela.

Early last month, the deployment of 10 F-35 fighter jets to Puerto Rico was announced, targeting operations against drug trafficking groups.

Samuel Rivera Baez, the mayor of Ceiba, a municipality adjacent to the base, mentioned that the F-35 aircraft are noticeable from early morning.

Expressing confidence, Baez commented, 'With the U.S. military's presence, our sense of security is unparalleled.'

The heightened military activity has not gone unnoticed by Puerto Rican residents such as Damien Leon, who expressed feelings of unease amid potential threats or attacks.

Recent images from the Pentagon highlight the impressive show of force, including a B-52 bomber shadowing an aircraft carrier en route to the Caribbean—an initiative indicative of the U.S.'s readiness to confront Venezuela.

As of recent reports, the United States had positioned four naval vessels in the western Atlantic; these included the USS Gerald R. Ford and accompanying missile destroyers. Additionally, seven more naval ships are stationed in the Caribbean, ranging from missile destroyers to amphibious support vessels, reflecting a robust maritime presence.

While the U.S. military continues exercises in the vicinity, Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro has criticized these actions as intimidation tactics amidst allegations of his connections to drug networks.

In his appeal, Maduro issued a call to resist external control, denouncing any efforts to reduce Venezuela to a mere asset of American influence.

Since early September, U.S. military operations have resulted in at least 20 offensives targeting vessels associated with drug smuggling, resulting in significant casualties according to official statements.

Furthermore, recent high-level briefings have seen President Trump weighing potential military actions in Venezuela, including possibilities of strikes on selected targets, as discussed with his closest advisors last Wednesday.

Conversations on Venezuela persisted at the White House on Friday, involving key figures within the administration like Vice President JD Vance, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, confirming growing tensions and strategic considerations.