The Dominican Republic said on Wednesday that it will let the United States use one air base and one airport for its anti-drug operations. These US operations have already killed more than 80 suspected traffickers. They have also sparked heavy criticism.
US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced the decision during his visit to Santo Domingo. The United States is increasing pressure on Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro. Washington says he leads a major drug cartel.
Limited Access Approved
President Luis Abinader told reporters that his country has approved temporary US access to restricted zones at the San Isidro Air Base and the Las Americas International Airport. He said the permission covers refueling, equipment movement, and personnel transport.
“We have authorised the United States, for a limited time, to use restricted areas at the San Isidro Air Base and the Las Americas International Airport for logistical operations of aircraft,” he said.
Hegseth confirmed the plan. He said the move allows the “temporary deployment of US service members and aircraft”. He also said the United States is “deadly serious” about the mission.
US Promises Strong Action
Hegseth said the US will take an aggressive approach.
“In waging this war on narco-terrorists, we’re willing to go on the offense, go on the offense in a way that changes the dynamic for the entire region, and we think can bring safety, stability and security to our partners,” he said.
He urged quick and firm action.
“We must meet narco-terrorists and their illegal activities with strength and swift action. It’s the only language they understand,” he added.
US Expands Presence in the Region
The visit followed Washington’s decision to label an alleged Venezuelan group, Cartel de los Soles, as a foreign terrorist organisation. This move gives the Trump administration more legal power to act against Venezuelan officials.
The United States began striking suspected drug smugglers in early September. Experts say the killings look like extrajudicial operations, even if the targets had criminal records. US forces have already destroyed more than 20 boats they claim were used for trafficking.
However, Washington has not released proof that the targets were smuggling drugs or posing a threat.
Large Military Deployment
Trump has sent the world’s biggest aircraft carrier and ten other ships to the Caribbean. This is a massive deployment for an anti-trafficking mission. The US military has also flown B-52 and B-1B bombers near Venezuela to show force.
These actions have raised tensions. Maduro says the United States is using drug trafficking as an excuse to “imposing regime change” and to capture Venezuela’s oil. He also says Venezuela does not grow illegal drugs and only becomes a route for Colombian cocaine.
Dominican Republic Already Cooperating
The Dominican Republic has been working with US forces for years. Earlier this month, its authorities seized 500 kilograms of cocaine from a boat stopped during a joint operation with US troops. The country shares the island of Hispaniola with Haiti and plays a key role in regional anti-drug efforts.