U.S. Marines and Sailors from the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) have begun conducting amphibious landing exercises in Southern Puerto Rico, a move that is part of a broader U.S. military buildup in the Caribbean. The unit, which is part of the Iwo Jima Amphibious Ready Group (ARG), is engaged in what officials describe as “realistic” training to enhance their readiness and capabilities. The exercises, which began on August 31, are taking place less than 500 miles from the Venezuelan coast, a location that underscores the heightened tensions in the region.
The Iwo Jima ARG, comprised of the amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD-7) and amphibious transport dock ships USS Fort Lauderdale (LPD-28) and USS San Antonio (LPD-17), is the centerpiece of a naval task force deployed to the Southern Caribbean. While officially described as a counter-narcotics mission, military analysts and news outlets have noted that the size and composition of the force suggest a broader strategic purpose of applying pressure on the Venezuelan government. This assessment has been reinforced by a recent kinetic strike launched by the task force against a smuggling vessel in the Southern Caribbean. The U.S. claims the vessel was operated by the Tren de Aragua gang, which Washington has designated as a “Maduro-backed terror group.”
According to a press release from the 22nd MEU, the amphibious exercises in Puerto Rico are a core competency of the unit and are designed to enable the rapid deployment of Marines from naval vessels to the shore. The challenging terrain and tropical climate of Puerto Rico provide an ideal environment for the unit to hone specialized skills like patrolling and reconnaissance. The exercises also serve to foster stronger relationships with the Puerto Rican National Guard and are aimed at enhancing regional security and disaster response capabilities.
The deployment of the 22nd MEU and the ARG to the Caribbean comes at a critical time, with the U.S. escalating its rhetoric and actions against the Nicolás Maduro regime. The Trump administration has consistently accused Maduro of leading a major drug cartel and has placed a $50 million bounty on his head. The recent kinetic strike and the ongoing drills in Puerto Rico are clear signs that the U.S. is using all available military and diplomatic tools to achieve its objectives in the region, with the potential for further confrontation looming.
