US-Venezuela Military Buildup 2026: Why Puerto Rico is Reliving a Painful Past

The Caribbean's clear waters are turning into a theater of tension. As the US-Venezuela military buildup intensifies in early 2026, Puerto Rico finds itself caught in the crosshairs of a geopolitical storm. What's meant to be a strategic deterrent against Nicolás Maduro's aggressive posturing is stirring up ghosts of a militarized past that the island has long sought to bury.

Rising Stakes in the US-Venezuela Military Buildup

The friction reached a boiling point after Venezuela increased its military presence near the Essequibo region. In response, the Pentagon has funneled resources into Puerto Rico, utilizing its strategic airfields and ports for large-scale exercises. According to reports from Al Jazeera, this marks one of the most significant mobilizations in the region in over a decade.

The Shadow Over Puerto Rico

For many Puerto Ricans, this isn't just about defense; it's a painful reminder of the Vieques occupation. For decades, the US Navy used the island of Vieques for target practice, leaving behind a legacy of environmental ruin and health crises. The current buildup has reignited protests, as locals fear that their home is being treated once again as a mere launchpad for imperial interests.