In a highly provocative move, two Venezuelan military jets flew near a US Navy destroyer in the Caribbean, prompting strong condemnation from the Pentagon. This incident escalates the ongoing standoff between the US and Venezuela, with officials warning of the implications of increased military presence in the region. Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has rallied support for what he deems a defense against US threats, claiming that America is seeking regime change. As tensions rise, many Venezuelans express ambivalence, caught between hopes for change and the fear of escalation into conflict. The US has recently deployed warships in the area under the guise of combating drug trafficking, adding another layer of complexity to the situation.