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Two weeks after it arrived in the region at the behest of US President Donald Trump amid tightening tensions between the United States and Venezuela, the USS Gerald R Ford made its first port of call in the Caribbean yesterday morning since its deployment in the region.

The vessel, considered to be the world’s largest and most advanced aircraft carrier, visited St Thomas, an island and constituency within the US Virgin Islands, its commander citing a need for rest and recuperation amid growing tensions and the US’ Southern Spear operations.

A release from the US Navy quoted Rear Adm Paul Lanzilotta, commander of Carrier Strike Group Twelve, stating that the team had made its US Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) posting its number one priority since its deployment. He said the visit would allow troops to recuperate and continue the President’s mission.