Reference News Network, November 7 report. According to the French newspaper Le Figaro's website on November 3, in the context of continued tensions with Venezuela, the U.S. military continues its military activities in the Caribbean. According to a survey published by Reuters on the 2nd, the United States has launched the restoration project of the Roosevelt Road Naval Base on the Puerto Rican islands, which had been abandoned for more than 20 years. The base was once one of the most important military facilities of the United States worldwide and was officially closed by the U.S. Navy in 2004.

The strategic base is located on the southeastern coast of Puerto Rico, covering an area of 35 square kilometers. According to Reuters, the base has begun comprehensive repairs several months ago: construction teams have started to clean and resurface the roads leading to the airport runway, while upgrading infrastructure, including installing air traffic control equipment and other safety devices.

Experts analyze that the runway, which is nearly 3,350 meters long, can ensure the takeoff and landing of transport planes and fighter jets. The deep-water port adjacent to the base can accommodate commercial cargo ships, warships, and submarines.

Aiming to revitalize the base's function as a strategic hub, the United States plans to use this base to maintain and develop its influence over Latin American countries. The base was built during World War II and named after President Roosevelt, playing an important strategic role during the war. During the Cold War, it provided maritime and air support for monitoring Cuba and containing Soviet regional influence.

As the U.S. strategic focus shifted toward the Middle East and counter-terrorism operations, the base was abandoned. The base also caused tense relations with local residents in Puerto Rico, and due to high maintenance costs, it was eventually closed. Now Washington is beginning to reassess the value of its military deployment in the Caribbean. (Translated by Zhao Kexin)

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