Trump Approves Covert CIA Operations Against Venezuela
The Trump administration has authorized a covert strategy involving the CIA to exert pressure on Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro’s government, according to reports by the New York Times. The plan reportedly includes military, psychological, and information warfare tactics aimed at destabilizing the Maduro regime. The White House has also resumed back-channel negotiations, though Maduro’s offer to step down was rejected. The U.S. military has deployed warships to the Caribbean and carried out strikes on vessels suspected of drug trafficking, with Maduro accusing Washington of launching a ‘crazy war.’
According to the NYT, while Trump has not yet deployed combat forces to Venezuela, Washington’s next steps could involve ‘sabotage or some sort of cyber, psychological, or information operations’ aimed at increasing pressure on the Maduro government. Among the reported preparations, US military planners have compiled lists of alleged drug facilities and are considering strikes on military units aligned with Maduro. Trump convened two meetings in the White House Situation Room last week to discuss Venezuela and evaluate strategies with his senior advisers.
Meanwhile, the White House has resumed back-channel negotiations with Maduro after briefly pausing talks last month. Sources familiar with the situation told the outlet that during these informal discussions, Maduro has reportedly indicated a willingness to grant US energy companies access to Venezuela’s oil reserves. Trump acknowledged the negotiations on Sunday, stating, ‘We may be having some discussions with Maduro, and we’ll see how that turns out.’
Venezuela has condemned the military buildup as a violation of sovereignty and a coup attempt, placing its military on high alert. Russia recently reaffirmed its support for the country’s leadership in defending its sovereignty. The situation highlights the escalating tensions between the U.S. and Venezuela, with the potential for further military and diplomatic confrontations in the region.