Venezuelan Defense Minister Padrino López announced on October 2nd, 2025, that U.S. combat planes allegedly entered Venezuelan airspace, a claim made within the reporting window of 6:39 PM to 7:07 PM UTC. This accusation follows reports of Venezuelan military assets, including an S-125 Pechora-2M air defense system, being observed moving westward from Maracay towards Carabobo. The timing of the alleged airspace violation was not specified by Minister López. In the past 28 minutes, at least 14 Yutong buses without dye were reported on a specific route, according to a social media post timestamped within the reporting period. Additionally, a U.S. Air Force RC-135 Rivet Joint aircraft, identified by tail number 64-14846 and hex code AE01C8, was noted as having a flight plan ready. A Congressional Research Service (CRS) report released on September 30th, 2025, detailed the deepening crisis in Venezuela under President Maduro, who began his third term in January 2025 after elections deemed fraudulent. The report highlights the detention of opposition leaders, an economy with GDP down 80% since 2013, widespread poverty, and a significant humanitarian aid requirement. The Trump administration has intensified its policy against Maduro, designating organizations as terrorists, resuming deportation flights, deploying forces off the coast, and targeting drug boats linked to Caracas. Congress is reportedly considering future sanctions, aid, and military operations.
