If you’re looking for an expert to discuss the increased U.S. military presence in the Caribbean, retired Vice Admiral Robert Murrett is available for interviews.

Murrett is professor of practice in the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs and deputy director of the Institute for Security Policy and Law. He shared his thoughts on recent updates below. If you’d like to schedule a time to speak with him, please reach out to Vanessa Marquette, media relations specialist, at vrmarque@syr.edu.

Professor Murrett writes: “The U.S. current force posture and projected augmentation (e.g., USS Gerald Ford (CVN-78)) confirm that the current administration intends to increase an already significant military footprint in the Caribbean. The sea-based and land-based (Puerto Rico) air, ground and maritime assets can escalate attacks on drug-related targets, and also support any additional tasking, e.g., with respect to Venezuela.

“Clarity on mission sets will be key throughout this operational evolution, as well as taking into account U.S. interests with all the regional states—including Colombia, Panama, Mexico and allied island states in the Caribbean.”