Puerto Ricans reject U.S. military presence in their territory

Published at: 21/11/2025 01:23 PM

The people of Puerto Rico have expressed their dissatisfaction with the increase in U.S. military operations on the island, in particular in Vieques and in the municipality of Salinas. Local media reported that on Thursday, maneuvers were carried out in the Santiago camp, where there are areas reserved for the Puerto Rico National Guard.

“If we fight to expel the Navy from Vieques, this time it will be no different; know that you will encounter resistance from the people of Vieques and those who speak to you,” said the mayor of Vieques, José Corcino Acevedo, of the New Progressive Party (NPP).

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) authorized the use of weapons at the former Vieques shooting range until December 19. The maneuvers involved F-35 planes and helicopters with live ammunition.

The rejection of the military presence is unprecedented. In 1999, the population mobilized after the death of civil guard David Sanes during a training bombing in Vieques. The protests led to the occupation of the training areas and to statements by then-President George W. Bush, who recognized the opposition of Puerto Ricans.

As a result of these demonstrations, Washington set 2003 as the date for the end of the exercises in Vieques. However, there is still ammunition in the area, demonstrating the non-compliance of the agreements by US forces with respect to the local population.

Mazo News Team