Sun Nov 16 16:52:36 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary of the text, followed by a news article version:
Summary:
Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has condemned joint military exercises between the United States and Trinidad and Tobago, calling them “irresponsible” and a threat to Venezuela. This is the second such exercise in a month. Maduro alleges the U.S. military presence in the Caribbean is a ploy to overthrow him, rather than combatting drug trafficking as the U.S. claims. He called on his supporters to protest during the maneuvers. The U.S. has recently increased its military activity in the region, including strikes on alleged drug smuggling boats, raising concerns about legality and potential human rights violations. The U.S. has also announced a new military operation targeting “narco-terrorists” in the region, but the scope and difference from existing deployments is unclear.
News Article:
Maduro Slams US-Trinidad & Tobago Military Drills as “Threat”
Caracas, Venezuela – November 16, 2025 – Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has sharply criticized joint military exercises being conducted by the United States and Trinidad and Tobago, labeling them “irresponsible” and a direct threat to Venezuelan sovereignty. Speaking at an event in Caracas on Saturday, Maduro accused Washington of using the military exercises as a pretext to potentially overthrow his government, rather than focusing on combating drug trafficking as the U.S. claims.
This marks the second joint training exercise between the two nations in less than a month, following a visit by a U.S. guided missile destroyer to Trinidad in October. Maduro called the October incident a “provocation.” He has urged his supporters to stage vigils and protests in eastern Venezuela during the maneuvers, scheduled for November 16-21.
The U.S. has significantly increased its military presence in Latin America in recent weeks, deploying warships, fighter jets, and thousands of troops. Recently, the U.S. launched strikes on alleged drug-smuggling boats, reportedly killing at least 80 people. Rights groups have questioned the legality of these strikes, claiming there is no evidence those targeted were involved in drug trafficking.
U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth recently announced a new military operation targeting “narco-terrorists” in the region. The exact nature and scope of this operation remains unclear and whether it will differ from already existing military operation.
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