Trump’s Key Allies Betray Him to Thwart Dangerous Operation

Amid escalating tensions regarding military action in Venezuela, top officials from the Trump administration informed lawmakers that there is currently no legal basis for U.S. strikes within the country’s borders. During a classified briefing on November 5, 2025, key figures including Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth communicated this stance to Congress.

Current Military Strategy in the Caribbean

At the briefing, it was emphasized that while the administration expressed interest in military action, there are no ongoing plans for land strikes in Venezuela. This follows an opinion from the Justice Department’s Office of Legal Counsel which supports strikes against drug boats in the Caribbean but explicitly prohibits land operations in other countries.

Administration’s Future Plans

Though the idea of a military strike has not been entirely dismissed, recent discussions indicate a lack of immediate plans. President Trump previously hinted at future land operations, stating, “the land is going to be next.” However, doubts over this approach have surfaced, particularly as Trump’s advisors revealed his hesitations about direct military engagement to remove Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro.

Military Operations Update

• The U.S. military has increased its presence in the Caribbean with the deployment of the Ford Carrier Strike Group.
• Since September, U.S. forces conducted 16 strikes on 17 vessels, resulting in at least 67 casualties.
• Two survivors from the recent attacks were returned to their home countries without prosecution, raising questions about drug trafficking evidence.

Officials maintain they possess intelligence substantiating their operations, yet have not released concrete evidence to the public. Congressional leaders are calling for more information regarding these military actions.

Legislative Response

In response to potential military action against Venezuela, the Senate is set to vote on a bipartisan war powers resolution. Spearheaded by Democratic Senator Tim Kaine, the legislation aims to restrict the president’s ability to undertake military action without congressional approval.

The bill faces significant opposition and is not expected to pass through the House, reflecting ongoing divisions even within the Republican party regarding Trump’s military strategies and drug enforcement operations.