U.S. Targets Venezuelan Military in Escalation Against Maduro Regime
The United States is intensifying its military actions against the Venezuelan regime, targeting its military installations. This decision comes amid Washington’s ongoing efforts to combat the Soles drug cartel, allegedly led by Nicolás Maduro. Sources indicate that airstrikes could happen imminently, aiming to dismantle the cartel’s hierarchy and infrastructure.
Military Escalation Against Maduro’s Regime
According to reports from the Miami Herald and Wall Street Journal, the U.S. plans to strike military assets used by the drug-trafficking organization. The operations target the network behind the estimated 500 tons of cocaine exported annually to Europe and the United States. Key military figures involved in drug trafficking are also facing mounting pressure.
Increased Rewards for Capture
- The U.S. government has raised the reward for information leading to Maduro’s capture from $25 million to $50 million.
- Rewards of $25 million are also available for capturing top figures such as Diosdado Cabello, the Interior Minister, and Vladimir Padrino López, the Defense Minister.
U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi has described Maduro as one of the world’s largest drug traffickers and a significant threat to U.S. security. The increase in bounties reflects a concerted effort to tighten the noose around his regime.
U.S. Military Presence in the Caribbean
The U.S. has significantly boosted its military presence near Venezuela. This includes creating a Joint Task Force with three destroyers and an amphibious group of approximately 4,500 troops. The mission has involved both maritime patrols and long-range surveillance flights, ensuring comprehensive coverage of trafficking routes.
Deployment of Advanced Aircraft
- In September, the deployment was enhanced with ten F-35B fighters and armed MQ-9 Reaper drones.
- These assets are capable of precision strikes against drug operations and their supporting infrastructure.
On October 24, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth ordered the aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford and its associated strike group into the Caribbean. This marks a pivotal moment in the campaign against the Soles cartel.
Potential Outcomes of Escalation
Analysts believe that the scale of current operations suggests the U.S. might aim for regime change in Venezuela. However, officials do not indicate an interest in prolonged occupation. The current military posture appears geared towards targeted operations rather than large-scale invasions.
Experts describe the forces currently in the Caribbean as inadequate for an invasion but sufficient for airstrikes. The focus remains on dismantling the drug-trafficking networks while minimizing the risk of wider conflict.
Conclusion
This escalation reflects the U.S. commitment to combat drug trafficking and its associated threats to national security. The coming days will be critical in determining the impact of these military operations on the Maduro regime.
