The United States may expand its military operations against state-linked drug cartels, according to President Donald Trump. Speaking at a press conference on Thursday, Trump highlighted the success of intercepting alleged Venezuelan state-linked “drug boats” at sea, stating that drugs coming in by sea have decreased by 95% compared to the previous year. He added that land operations could be the next target, although he did not provide further details on potential attack locations or timelines.
In recent weeks, US naval and air operations have targeted what Washington claims are Venezuelan-linked drug boats in the Caribbean and Pacific, resulting in the deaths of dozens of people. The Venezuelan government denies any involvement in narcotics trafficking and accuses the US of seeking “regime change.” Tensions between the two nations have escalated, with Trump recently authorizing covert CIA activity inside Venezuela. President Nicolas Maduro has described this move as “desperate” and has put the military on heightened alert, warning that Venezuela possesses a large arsenal of Soviet-era Igla-S air defense systems.
Additionally, a report by the Wall Street Journal claimed that two nuclear-capable US Air Force B-1 bombers flew near Venezuelan airspace on Thursday. However, Trump has dismissed this claim, stating that while the US is “not happy with Venezuela,” there is no truth to the report. The US has been increasing pressure on Venezuela, with Trump signaling that further military action may be taken against alleged narcotraffickers. The president has also stated that he does not believe congressional approval is necessary for such strikes, although he may still notify the Senate and Congress.
The situation between the US and Venezuela remains tense, with both nations exchanging accusations and warnings. The potential expansion of US military operations against state-linked drug cartels could further escalate tensions in the region. As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen what actions the US will take next and how Venezuela will respond. The ongoing tensions between the two nations have significant implications for regional stability and global security.