Venezuela–U.S. Tensions
Background
Venezuela has deployed 17,000 troops near its Colombian border in Tachira State, in response to a U.S. military buildup in the Caribbean Sea.
The U.S. has launched a series of naval strikes on alleged drug-smuggling boats, which have reportedly killed at least 27 people so far.
Regional and International Response
Colombian President Gustavo Petro has urged the United Nations to initiate a criminal process against former U.S. President Trump, alleging that Colombians were also killed.
The tensions have raised fears of regional destabilization, especially near the Venezuela–Colombia border.
Trinidad and Tobago, lying off Venezuela’s coast, has expressed concern about regional spillover.
Prelims Practice MCQ
Q3. Which of the following correctly describes the “Tachira State,” recently mentioned in the context of Venezuela’s military drills?
(a) A coastal region facing the Caribbean Sea
(b) A landlocked state bordering Colombia
(c) A province near the Orinoco Delta
(d) A northern administrative region bordering Guyana
Answer: (b)
Explanation:
Tachira State is a landlocked western Venezuelan state bordering Colombia, strategically important during cross-border tensions.