US Navy headed to Carib

AP

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CARACAS, Venezuela (AP) – The U.S. ambassador played down on Tuesday the planned deployment of a U.S. aircraft carrier for naval exercises in the Caribbean amid claims by President Hugo Chavez that his nation must prepare for a possible U.S. invasion.

The Miami–based U.S. Southern Command announced Monday that the USS George Washington – along with a destroyer, cruiser, frigate and a 60–plane air wing – would conduct military exercises from early April to late May with other Caribbean countries to enhance maritime security.

"It’s not the first time that the U.S. government has had naval exercises in the Caribbean and it won’t be the last," U.S. Ambassador William Brownfield told reporters Tuesday.

"Eventually, I’m sure we can have a little dialogue to eliminate any confusion, any suspicions about this activity," he said.

Brownfield added that he had advised the Venezuelan government, including the Defense Ministry, of the plans on Monday.

The Southern Command said that Carrier Strike Group Ten with roughly 6,500 sailors will focus on unconventional threats such as human trafficking and drug trafficking during the exercises.

"The deployment will focus on enhancing military–to–military relationships with regional partner nations, improving operational readiness, and fostering good will," the statement said.

Chavez has repeatedly claimed the U.S. is considering a military attack to oust his leftist government. U.S. officials deny that but accuse Chavez of being a destabilizing force in the region.

On Sunday, Chavez said he was preparing his nation for a "war of resistance" against the U.S., saying Venezuela’s military has begun training soldiers in guerrilla tactics to counter a stronger military force.