Military aircraft spotted at Ponce airport amid rising US presence in region
- The San Juan Daily Star
- 7 hours ago
- 1 min read
By THE STAR STAFF
Ponce Mayor Marlese Sifre Rodríguez acknowledged earlier this week that military aircraft have been seen at Mercedita International Airport, even though she has not received official confirmation about their operations.
The mayor’s comments came as the United States increases its military presence in the Caribbean amid heightened tensions with Venezuela.
“I don’t have any direct information,” Sifre said. “However, at the port we had communication and knew that military ships were arriving, resupplying, and using our facilities. As for the airport, I have seen military planes, but I don’t know if this will be permanent or what exactly is planned.”
The mayor noted that the use of the airport for military purposes now appears more official, raising concerns about what this might signal for regional security.
“I live very close, and I’ve seen and heard the planes. It seems the airport will be used more formally for these operations,” she added. “This always raises concerns because of what’s happening with Venezuela and what might be planned.”
The increased U.S. military activity in Puerto Rico aligns with broader efforts to strengthen its presence in the Caribbean. Defense analysts point to growing unease over Venezuela’s political instability and its territorial dispute with Guyana, which has drawn international attention. Washington has signaled its commitment to safeguarding regional security, deploying naval assets and military aircraft across strategic locations.
While local officials express caution, they also acknowledge that decisions on military deployments rest with the federal government.
“For now, we can only accept what the government decides,” Sifre said.