Trump Predicts Imminent Land Strikes in Venezuela
President Donald Trump has announced plans for imminent land strikes against Venezuelan drug traffickers. These strikes will complement ongoing military operations that have focused primarily on maritime targets. During a Thanksgiving call with U.S. service members, Trump mentioned, “We’ll be starting to stop them by land also. The land is easier, but that’s going to start very soon.”
Military Operations Against Drug Traffickers
The Trump administration has intensified its military presence near Venezuela in response to alleged drug trafficking. Since September, U.S. forces have attacked 21 boats in international waters, resulting in 83 fatalities—many of whom were Venezuelans. Officials claim these vessels were involved in transporting narcotics to the United States.
Legal Concerns and Military Strategy
Critics, including Senate Democrats, have raised questions about the legality of these actions. They argue that the use of military force should be carefully justified. A letter from 13 senators to Attorney General Pam Bondi and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth highlighted the gravity of using lethal force in a democratic society.
- 21 boats attacked since early September
- 83 people killed, primarily Venezuelan nationals
- Legal scrutiny of military operations ongoing
Tensions and Diplomacy
The situation is exacerbated by the deployment of significant military assets near Venezuela. The U.S. has stationed its largest aircraft carrier, two guided missile destroyers, and a special operations ship in the region, with around 12,000 troops actively positioned. This military buildup coincides with the designation of the ‘Cartel de los Soles’ as a foreign terrorist organization on November 24, which the U.S. claims is led by Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro.
Despite the escalating tensions, Trump has expressed a willingness to engage in dialogue with Maduro. On November 25, he stated, “I might talk to him, we’ll see,” hinting at potential diplomatic discussions amid the ongoing pressure campaign.
The coming weeks will be crucial as the Trump administration balances military action against Venezuela with the possibility of diplomacy.
