Flight data reviewed by The New York Times indicate continued U.S. military pressure on Venezuela, with a sharp increase in transport flights to Puerto Rico.
According to the data, at least 16 flights by C-17 military cargo aircraft, typically used to transport troops and heavy equipment, were recorded last week from U.S. bases to Puerto Rico. The flights originated from bases across several U.S. states as well as Japan, though the number of personnel or equipment carried remains unclear. Air traffic control communications suggest the actual number of flights may be higher, as some military movements do not appear on public tracking platforms.
Separately, The Wall Street Journal reported that at least 10 CV-22 aircraft used by U.S. special operations forces flew from Cannon Air Force Base in New Mexico to the region earlier this week, citing an unnamed U.S. official.
The developments come amid rising tensions between Washington and Caracas. U.S. President Donald Trump has adopted a tougher stance toward Venezuela during his second term, including sanctions and the seizure of Venezuelan oil tankers. Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has criticized the policy, urging Washington to focus on its domestic challenges.
