Vermont Air Guard heads to Caribbean during military buildup against Venezuela
Article Author: Ethan Weinstein
Article Date: December 15, 2025
The Vermont Air National Guard is preparing to deploy F-35A fighter jets to the Caribbean as part of a U.S. military operation linked to rising tensions with Venezuela. The deployment, associated with Operation Southern Spear, has drawn strong criticism from Vermont’s congressional delegation, who argue that the mobilization lacks transparency and may be unconstitutional without congressional approval. The Trump administration has increased pressure on Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, whom it does not recognize as legitimate, citing migration and security concerns. State officials, including Gov. Phil Scott, say the deployment falls under federal authority and is outside the governor’s control, while the Guard has declined to share operational details, citing security concerns.
Main Points and Details:
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The Vermont Air National Guard’s 158th Fighter Wing is expected to deploy F-35A jets to the Caribbean.
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The deployment is tied to Operation Southern Spear, a U.S. military effort targeting alleged drug smuggling linked to Venezuela.
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Vermont’s congressional delegation, including Sens. Peter Welch and Bernie Sanders and Rep. Becca Balint, has publicly opposed the mobilization.
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Lawmakers argue that any military action against Venezuela requires congressional approval and warn of constitutional violations.
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Democrats and some legal experts have raised concerns about civilian casualties and potential war crimes linked to the operation.
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Details about the deployment’s timing, duration, and mission remain undisclosed by the Vermont National Guard.
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Gov. Phil Scott stated that the mobilization is under federal jurisdiction and not subject to state control.
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The Pentagon has declined to comment on the operation.
➡️ FULL ARTICLE: https://vtdigger.org/2025/12/15/vermont-air-national-guard-headed-to-caribbean-amid-growing-u-s-tensions-with-venezuela/