Post by : Raina
Al-Fahim
WASHINGTON – The Trump administration is examining possible military actions in Venezuela, fueled by senior-level discussions this week at the White House, according to sources.
President Donald Trump has escalated the U.S. military presence in the Caribbean region, deploying F-35 jets, warships, and a nuclear submarine as tensions rise after deadly strikes against suspected drug vessels.
Just earlier this week, the USS Gerald Ford aircraft carrier strike group was deployed to Latin America, accompanied by over 75 military aircraft and more than 5,000 troops, signaling an increased readiness for operations that could target Venezuela.
On Friday, Trump hinted at a near decision regarding potential actions against Venezuela, stating, “I can’t disclose specifics but I have largely made up my mind,” to reporters on Air Force One.
Insider sources indicated that meetings of the Homeland Security Council took place this week to evaluate possible actions. A smaller session occurred on Wednesday, followed by a larger discussion on Thursday that included Vice President JD Vance, Homeland Security Adviser Stephen Miller, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, and Gen. Dan Caine, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. President Trump participated in the Thursday Situation Room briefing, being presented with several proposals, though specifics were not publicly revealed.
While land operations in Venezuela have been discussed, Trump has consistently stated that regime change is not his aim. Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, in office since 2013, has accused Trump of attempting an armed takeover.
In August, Washington increased the reward for information leading to Maduro’s arrest to $50 million, citing connections to drug trafficking. U.S. military actions in the Caribbean and Pacific have reportedly resulted in at least 80 fatalities across over 20 strikes targeting suspected drug vessels, prompting criticism from some Democratic lawmakers, legal experts, and European allies questioning their legality.
Investigations reveal that the U.S. is modernizing an old Cold War-era naval base in the Caribbean, indicating potential preparations for sustained military operations potentially extending into Venezuela. Additionally, Venezuelan armed forces are reportedly gearing up for resistance through guerrilla tactics and sabotage, relying on outdated Russian-manufactured weapons.
The prospect of military intervention is largely unpopular among American voters. A recent Reuters/Ipsos poll indicates that only 35% of U.S. citizens support military force against Venezuela without the consent of its government, even if aimed at curtailing illegal drug trafficking.
Tensions are further heightened with Colombia, as Trump and Colombian President Gustavo Petro have exchanged harsh remarks. Trump deemed Petro an “illegal drug leader” and has imposed sanctions, while Petro accused the U.S. of committing acts of murder through its military operations.
As deliberations continue at the White House, analysts caution that any military interference in Venezuela could bring serious geopolitical and humanitarian consequences, leading to regional destabilization and drawing international condemnation.
In the upcoming days, clearer insights into the Trump administration’s strategy are anticipated, with both the U.S. and adjacent nations remaining on high alert.
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