Trump Leaves Door Open for Possible Action Against Venezuela: Implications for His War on Drugs
President Donald Trump is intensifying measures against drug cartels, hinting at potential actions in Venezuela. His administration has launched a vigorous campaign to combat drug trafficking, focusing particularly on the inflow from Latin America.
US Involvement in Drug Conflicts
On September 30, a White House memo declared US participation in a “non-international armed conflict” with drug smugglers. This announcement comes after four lethal strikes on alleged drug vessels in the Caribbean.
Establishing Joint Task Force
The Department of War, under Secretary Pete Hegseth, created a counter-narcotics Joint Task Force in the Southern Command area. Hegseth stated the task force’s objective is to eliminate cartels and safeguard the United States.
Possible Venezuelan Targets
Geoff Ramsey, an expert with the Atlantic Council, suggested Trump’s approach is unprecedented in US drug wars in Latin America. By involving the military, targets inside Venezuela could be assessed, marking a significant escalation.
Challenges in Venezuela
Adverse action in Venezuela might require dismantling its air defenses, potentially increasing hostilities. Historical avoidance of targeting Venezuelan military resources indicates caution around direct military conflict.
Current Operations
The Trump administration bolstered its naval presence in the Caribbean by dispatching US Navy guided missile destroyers. This strategy aims to disrupt drug traffickers exploiting sea routes.
- Nathan Jones of Rice University noted these efforts might not affect fentanyl routes since precursors travel from China to Mexico.
- He anticipates drug cartels might transition to land or air pathways, bypassing sea routes.
Political Reactions
Congress is querying the legality of these strikes. Senators Adam Schiff and Tim Kaine proposed a war powers resolution to prevent US forces from conflicts with non-state groups. The initiative narrowly failed to pass in the Senate.
Support and Opposition
| Support | Rand Paul (R-Ky.) | Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) |
|---|---|---|
| Opposition | Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Senate Foreign Relations Committee Chair |
Sen. Jim Risch defended Trump’s actions, deeming the resolution unrealistic as it contravenes the President’s duty to prevent potential threats.
