U.S. officials bolster military efforts against drug cartels in Puerto Rico

In Puerto Rico, U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Air Force General Dan Caine arrived on September 8, 2025, amid an increase in military operations aimed at combating drug cartels in the Caribbean. This visit follows the deployment of hundreds of U.S. Marines to the island for a previously scheduled training exercise, highlighting the strategic importance of Puerto Rico in U.S. national security efforts. The training exercises, involving the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit, include amphibious and flight operations designed to enhance readiness against threats from drug traffickers and gangs operating in the region. Governor of Puerto Rico, Pedro Pierluisi Gonzlez, expressed gratitude towards the Trump administration for acknowledging the island's strategic significance and commended their efforts against drug cartels. Hegseth's discourse at the 156th Wing Muz Air National Guard Base involved addressing approximately 300 soldiers, where he referred to them as 'American warriors' deserving of thanks for their dedication and service. The recent military involvement comes on the heels of an announcement by President Trump about a U.S. military strike on a vessel linked to drug trafficking, which resulted in significant casualties. The strike underscores the growing urgency for the U.S. to address drug-related threats from Caribbean and South American nations, particularly Venezuela, which is noted for harboring gang-related activities. Despite military support from the U.S., there is substantial local opposition to a heightened military presence on the island, evidenced by protests at the National Guard base. Activists from groups like Mothers Against War voiced their dissent, reflecting concerns about the implications of using Puerto Rico as a military base and launching pad for regional operations. They stress the importance of not resorting to war-based solutions and maintain that the historical presence of military operations in Puerto Rico has often led to public discontent. Thus, as U.S. officials meet with local militaries and plan further deployments, the situation highlights a complex intersection of national security, drug trafficking, and the growing divide between government actions and public sentiment in Puerto Rico.