U.S. Deploys Aircraft Carrier to Latin America as Drug Operation Expands

New York Times - WorldCenter-LeftEN 7 min read 100% complete by Charlie Savage and Eric SchmittOctober 25, 2025 at 06:37 AM

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The U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has ordered the deployment of the aircraft carrier Gerald R. Ford and its accompanying fleet to waters off Latin America, marking a significant military escalation against suspected drug-smuggling operations. This move follows 10 strikes on vessels since late August that have resulted in 43 deaths. The Pentagon states this enhanced presence aims to disrupt illicit activities threatening U.S. safety and prosperity in the Western Hemisphere. Currently deployed off Croatia, the Ford is expected to reach its new mission area within seven to ten days. This deployment represents an unusual redirection of resources amid intensifying military actions against drug trafficking in the region.

Key Topics & Entities

South America 60% Gerald R. Ford 70% Caribbean Sea 70% Pete Hegseth ×280% Latin America ×280% US ×390%

Keywords

aircraft carrier 90% latin america 85% drug operation 80% counterterrorism 75% counternarcotics mission 70% u.s. military strikes 65% caribbean sea 60% pentagon's statement 55% western hemisphere safety 50% illicit activities disruption 45%