❓WHAT HAPPENED: U.S. military officials are considering air strikes targeting drug traffickers inside Venezuela, potentially beginning in a matter of weeks.
👤WHO WAS INVOLVED: President Donald J. Trump, U.S. military officials, Venezuelan dictator Nicolás Maduro, and intermediaries from allied nations.
📍WHEN & WHERE: Discussions are ongoing, with possible strikes in Venezuela in the coming weeks.
💬KEY QUOTE: “Venezuela is sending us their gang members, their drug dealers, and drugs. It’s not acceptable.” – President Donald Trump
🎯IMPACT: Potential escalation in U.S. military operations against drug trafficking and increased pressure on Venezuela’s leadership.
The U.S. military is reportedly preparing plans to strike drug traffickers within Venezuela, with operations potentially beginning in a few weeks. This development comes as part of the Trump administration’s intensified focus on combating drug trafficking and addressing its concerns with the Venezuelan government under dictator Nicolás Maduro.
In recent weeks, U.S. forces have already targeted Venezuelan vessels involved in drug trafficking. President Donald J. Trump announced these actions on Truth Social and directed a larger contingent of U.S. air and naval power to be deployed to the Caribbean. Dominican Republic officials confirmed that drugs were recovered after one such strike.
The proposed plans reportedly include drone strikes targeting drug labs and leadership within trafficking organizations. Discussions also highlight frustrations with Maduro’s perceived failure to curb illegal drug flows out of Venezuela. Trump has repeatedly argued, “Venezuela is sending us their gang members, their drug dealers, and drugs. It’s not acceptable.”
A significant number of U.S. military aircraft have been moved to Puerto Rico, signaling readiness for further operations. However, prolonged deployments could strain other military commitments.
The Trump administration has not ruled out regime change as a potential outcome of its strategy, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio reportedly advocating for increased pressure on Maduro. Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts continue, with intermediaries facilitating discussions between the U.S. and Venezuela. Maduro has denied involvement in drug trafficking and has accused the U.S. of attempting to undermine his government.
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