Trump Claims He Approved CIA Actions in Venezuela While Maduro Rejects Regime Change

Former President Donald Trump has revealed that he authorized the CIA to execute covert operations in Venezuela. This decision has sparked significant outrage from Venezuelan officials. Reports indicate that U.S. forces have conducted multiple strikes on boats suspected of drug trafficking, resulting in the deaths of at least 27 individuals in the Caribbean.

Trump’s Justification for CIA Operations in Venezuela

During a press conference at the White House, Trump acknowledged the CIA’s involvement, stating that the U.S. is “looking at land” to further combat drug cartels in the region. He provided two main justifications for his decision. First, he cited concerns about Venezuelan prisoners being released into the U.S. Secondly, he highlighted the flow of drugs from Venezuela into the country.

Venezuelan Response to U.S. Military Operations

Nicolas Maduro, the contested president of Venezuela, has issued calls for peace amid increasing U.S. military presence. He warned against the prospect of regime change, drawing parallels to previous conflicts in Afghanistan and Iraq. Maduro mobilized military and civilian forces in response to the escalating situation.

U.S. Military Activity in the Region

The U.S. has recently deployed eight warships and a nuclear-powered submarine to the Caribbean as part of drug-smuggling crackdowns. This military buildup has raised alarms in Caracas, with Foreign Minister Yván Gil condemning the provocations from the Trump administration.

• Recent U.S. operations have resulted in six fatalities from a strike near Venezuela’s coast.
• Trump has offered a $50 million bounty for Maduro’s capture.
• U.S. officials allege that Maduro is linked to drug trafficking networks.

Future Implications of CIA Authorization

Experts, including former CIA officer Mick Mulroy, have indicated that Trump’s authorization for CIA actions marks a significant escalation in U.S. efforts against drug trafficking organizations. This could lead to more aggressive operations aimed at dismantling cartels.

Additionally, the situation continues to evolve, with potential impacts on both U.S.-Venezuela relations and regional stability. The international community is watching closely as tensions rise and both sides prepare for potential confrontations.