The United States is considering launching land strikes against alleged Venezuela-linked drug operations, according to President Donald Trump. Speaking at the White House, Trump claimed that US forces have significantly reduced maritime drug trafficking from Venezuela, with a 92% decrease. He also stated that the US has “knocked out 96% of the drugs coming in by water.” The president hinted that land operations could begin “pretty soon,” but did not provide further details on potential targets or the scope of the operation.

The US has increased its military presence in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific since September, carrying out over 20 strikes against suspected drug vessels and killing scores of people. Trump believes that these operations have saved tens of thousands of American lives by preventing narcotics from entering the US.

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has consistently denied any links to narcocartels, accusing the US of attempting to overthrow his government under the guise of an anti-drug campaign. The Venezuelan government has condemned recent US actions, including the seizure of an oil tanker off the country’s coast, as “blatant theft” and “criminal naval piracy.”

Russia has expressed its support for Maduro’s government, with President Vladimir Putin reaffirming his commitment to a strategic partnership treaty signed in May. The Kremlin has stated that Putin “expressed solidarity with the people of Venezuela and reaffirmed his support for the Maduro government’s resolve to defend national interests and sovereignty against foreign pressure.”

The situation between the US and Venezuela remains tense, with the US maintaining its pressure on the Venezuelan government. The potential for land strikes against alleged drug operations has raised concerns about the escalation of the conflict. As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how the US and Venezuela will navigate their differences and address the issues of drug trafficking and national sovereignty.