Trump Administration Launches New Offensive Against Venezuela

UPDATE: The Trump administration is gearing up for a significant escalation in operations against Venezuela, with plans reportedly in motion to intensify pressure on President Nicolás Maduro‘s regime. This urgent development marks a pivotal moment in U.S.-Venezuelan relations as authorities confirm that covert operations could soon commence.

Multiple U.S. officials, speaking anonymously to Reuters, indicate that these operations may be the initial phase of a broader strategy aimed at potentially overthrowing Maduro. The exact timing of these actions remains unclear, with sources stating that President Donald Trump has yet to finalize any decisions. However, military readiness is evident, as the U.S. Navy’s largest aircraft carrier, the Gerald R. Ford, has arrived in the Caribbean, signaling an increased military presence that heightens tensions in the region.

Additionally, the U.S. plans to designate the Cartel de los Soles as a foreign terrorist organization, linking Maduro directly to this group, which he vehemently denies. This designation is set to be announced on Monday, escalating the ongoing accusations against the Venezuelan leader.

The growing military involvement raises serious concerns about the potential for prolonged chaos in Venezuela, an oil-rich nation already grappling with significant instability. Douglas Farah, a Latin America security consultant, warns of the risk of “chaos for a sustained period” should Maduro’s government collapse.

In light of these developments, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) is demanding a classified briefing from Secretary of State Marco Rubio regarding the escalating military operations. Schumer emphasizes the need for congressional consultation, stating, “The last thing Americans want right now is another endless war.”

Former national security adviser John Bolton has characterized Trump’s strategy as having “put the gun on the table” regarding negotiations with Maduro, underscoring the heightened military pressure while keeping the door open for potential discussions. Bolton cautions that drug smugglers will likely adapt to U.S. actions, continuing to seek new routes for narcotics.

As these developments unfold, the international community and Venezuelan citizens alike are left watching closely, with implications that could reverberate throughout the region. The situation remains fluid, and further updates are expected as the U.S. continues to refine its approach to addressing the Maduro regime.

Stay tuned for more urgent updates on this developing story as it continues to impact both Venezuela and U.S. foreign policy.