1. The USS Gerald R. Ford, the world's largest aircraft carrier, has been deployed to the Caribbean region by the US, escalating tensions around Venezuela.
2. President Donald Trump has been conducting attacks on alleged drug-trafficking vessels in September and has accused countries like Venezuela of smuggling drugs into the US. He has also suggested ground operations.
3. In response, Venezuela has started military exercises and criticized the US for its aggressive stance, with the country's defense minister stating a "unanimous global rejection" against the US's intent to maintain global hegemony.