The United States has deployed 10,000 troops to the Caribbean as part of an intensified effort to combat drug trafficking, particularly in light of recent vessel strikes linked to cartels. The Pentagon has announced the establishment of a new joint task force to lead counter-narcotics operations in the region, reinforcing operational command in Latin America. This military buildup aims to curb cartel activities, particularly near Venezuela, as the U.S. government escalates its campaign against drug trafficking organizations under the directive of the War Department and public figures like Pete Hegseth.