Tensions rise as the U.S. targets Venezuela with covert operations

U.S. ramps up pressure on Maduro with CIA operations and military buildup

Trump greenlights CIA missions targeting Venezuela

President Donald Trump has confirmed he authorised covert CIA operations in Venezuela, marking a sharp escalation in U.S. pressure on President Nicolás Maduro, according to Reuters.

The operations may include lethal force and intelligence missions, sparking concerns about the scope and intent behind the strategy.

Focus on regime change and drug trafficking

According to U.S. officials cited by The New York Times, the directive is part of a wider effort to remove Maduro from power.

The U.S. has already offered a $50 million reward for information leading to his arrest on drug trafficking charges, accusing his government of links to organised crime.

Trump’s justification: migration and drugs

Speaking from the Oval Office, Trump claimed Venezuela has been sending prisoners into the United States, contributing to illegal immigration and crime.

“They came in because we had an open border,” reports Reuters, though no evidence has been presented to support the claim. He also cited drug trafficking as a key concern.

Military pressure builds in the Caribbean

The CIA’s expanded authority comes alongside a significant U.S. military buildup in the southern Caribbean.

Trump said maritime drug routes were now defeated, with efforts shifting to land-based smuggling.

At least five naval strikes have been launched on vessels alleged to be involved in trafficking.

Venezuela accuses U.S. of regime change agenda

Venezuela’s government responded sharply, calling Trump’s actions a violation of international law and a cover for regime change.

Foreign Minister Yvan Gil said the U.S. aimed to control Venezuela’s oil and pledged to raise the issue at the UN Security Council, demanding international accountability.

History of CIA involvement in Latin America resurfaces

The decision has revived memories of past CIA operations in Latin America, especially during the Cold War.

The agency has a long track record of working to dismantle drug cartels and topple regimes seen as unfriendly to U.S. interests—sometimes with little public oversight.

Trump dodges questions on CIA’s full powers

When asked whether the CIA had the green light to target Maduro directly, Trump refused to answer, instead stating,

“I think Venezuela is feeling the heat,” reports Reuters. He also criticized traditional Coast Guard patrols as ineffective, instead pushing for bolder military action to disrupt drug flows.

This article is made and published by auk1, which may have used AI in the preparation