US Navy vessel encountered close approach from Venezuelan military aircraft, according to the Pentagon

U.S. Navy ship encountered close proximity of Venezuelan military aircraft in international waters, an action deemed "provocative" by the U.S. Department of Defense.

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2025 September 13 . 7:41 PM

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United States Navy ship encounters Venezuelan military aircraft, according to Pentagon report

US Navy vessel encountered close approach from Venezuelan military aircraft, according to the Pentagon

The United States has taken a decisive action against a suspected drug vessel in international waters, a move that has sparked growing tension between Venezuela and the United States. According to CNN's previous reports, US warships and military personnel were deployed to the Venezuelan coast in response to counter narco-terror operations.

The US Department of Defense has labelled this move as "highly provocative." The statement, issued by the US military, advised the cartel running Venezuela not to obstruct, deter, or interfere with counter-narcotics and counter-terror operations.

The targeted vessel is linked to the Tren de Aragua gang, a notorious drug trafficking organisation operating in Venezuela. The lethal military strike occurred in international waters, a fact confirmed by the US military.

President Donald Trump announced that 11 people were killed in the strike. This action is seen as a response to the growing tension between Venezuela and the United States.

The incident took an unexpected turn when two Venezuelan military aircraft flew near a US Navy vessel in international waters on Thursday. The Pentagon reported that these aircraft were controlled by Venezuela.

In response, President Nicolas Maduro has announced the deployment of troops and militias, as well as a call for Venezuelans to join the Bolivarian Militia. He has criticised the US for its aggressive actions, claiming they are a violation of Venezuela's sovereignty.

CNN has reached out to the Defense Department and the White House for additional comment on the situation. As of now, there has been no official response from these parties.

This incident marks a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict between Venezuela and the United States. Both nations will need to navigate this tense situation carefully to avoid further escalation.