U.S. Considers Military Action Against Venezuela Over Drug Trafficking
The United States is preparing military options, including drone strikes, to target drug traffickers in Venezuela, according to unnamed officials. The administration is considering strikes as part of broader efforts to combat drug trafficking, even though recent actions like sinking boats and deploying military assets have not significantly weakened Maduro’s power. The potential strikes could occur within weeks, though they have not yet been approved by President Trump.
According to the sources, Washington has sunk at least three boats it alleges were carrying narcotics off the coast of Venezuela, resulting in the death of at least 17 people. Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has denied any links to drug trafficking and insists that the attacks were part of an American attempt to overthrow him. The potential for bombing Venezuela could happen in a matter of weeks, as reported by the broadcaster, although the measure has not yet been approved by Trump.
Senior administration officials stated that the Trump administration is prepared to use every element of American power to stop drugs from flooding into the country and to bring those responsible to justice. At the same, the U.S. and Venezuela have been in contact through unspecified Middle Eastern intermediaries, with Maduro allegedly offering some concessions to Trump to defuse tensions, according to a source.
Venezuelan Foreign Minister Yvan Gil Pinto criticized the U.S. for what he called the ‘illegal and completely immoral military threat hanging over our heads.’ The minister emphasized that Caracas will resist what he referred to as ‘imperialist aggression’ and sought support from the international community. He also reiterated Venezuela’s commitment to defending its sovereignty and right to live in peace, free from foreign interference.
The U.S. military actions could have significant financial implications, as the potential use of military force could affect trade, diplomatic relations, and regional stability. These developments highlight the ongoing tensions between the United States and Venezuela, with both sides engaging in a complex interplay of diplomacy and military posturing.