Tensions High: U.S. Planes Near Venezuela's Coastline

Venezuelan Defense Minister, General Vladimir Padrino, expressed concerns over the presence of U.S. combat planes near Venezuela's coast, describing them as a threat. The U.S. justifies its Caribbean military presence as anti-drug efforts, but legal experts question the legitimacy of these actions.

Venezuela's Defense Minister, General Vladimir Padrino, raised alarms on Thursday regarding the detection of five U.S. combat planes near the country's coast. He labeled the incursion as a threat from the United States, as reported from an air base during a broadcast on state television.

Padrino highlighted the proximity of these 'imperialist combat planes' to the Venezuelan coast as a 'vulgarity, a provocation, a threat to national security.' This statement followed an informational report from an airline to a control tower concerning the aircraft.

The United States has maintained a naval presence in the Caribbean, asserting its mission is to counteract drug trafficking. However, U.S. forces have engaged several vessels allegedly transporting drugs from Venezuela, raising legal concerns regarding the legitimacy of such military actions.

(With inputs from agencies.)