DORAL, Fla. — The United States’ involvement in Venezuela is intensifying as the U.S. military continues to send warships and thousands of troops to the region, aiming to curb illegal drug trafficking.

Analysts say the ultimate goal may be regime change targeting embattled President Nicolás Maduro.

Luis, a Venezuelan native living in South Florida, supports the mission to stop narcotics trafficking, saying Maduro “will always be a problem if he stays in power.”

At the same time, Luis expressed concern for his family still in Venezuela.

“They’re scared of what could happen next,” he said, noting that rising tensions have left loved ones anxious about their safety.

The conflict has escalated over the past few months, with many Venezuelans abroad closely monitoring the situation at home.

U.S. buildup near Venezuela sparks hope and fear among exiled citizens

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Byron Tollefson