Claims of U.S. Using “Sound Device” in Venezuela Spark Debate
Recent reports suggest that a specialized sound device may have been used by the U.S. military in Venezuela. These claims, highlighted by White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt, describe Venezuelan and Cuban security forces being incapacitated by a supposed “sonic weapon.”
Experts suggest the device in question could be a Long-Range Acoustic Device (LRAD). This device projects sound in a focused beam, delivering clear commands or a piercing tone. While LRADs can cause pain and disorientation at close range, they are not designed to inflict lasting harm.
Mark Cancian, a retired Marine lieutenant colonel, explained that LRADs can be used to deter movement or deliver instructions at a distance. They have been used by U.S. forces in the past for crowd control.
Some analysts speculate about the use of more advanced technologies. The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) has researched non-lethal technologies that can temporarily disable adversaries. However, there is no concrete proof that such experimental technology was deployed in Venezuela.
Reports from Venezuela describe more extreme symptoms than those typically associated with LRADs, including bleeding. These claims remain unverified.
Alongside the possible use of a sound device, reports indicate that a cyberattack was launched to disrupt communications systems in Caracas during the operation.
The White House and Pentagon have not yet commented on the situation. While directional acoustic devices are known to exist, there is no confirmation of a “sonic weapon” causing severe injuries being used in Venezuela.
