Washington (TDI): The United States is reportedly preparing to launch a new phase of operations in Venezuela in the coming days, according to Four US officials, who spoke to Reuters on the condition of anonymity.
The development comes as President Donald Trump intensified pressure on Venezuelan President, Nicolas Maduro, who has been targeted repeatedly through political as well as military measures.
The officials told Reuters that covert operations are likely to be the first step in the upcoming plan against Maduro. The US has been expanding its military presence in the Caribbean for months now.
Its Navy’s Largest aircraft carrier, the USS Gerald R. Ford, arrived in the region, joined by multiple warships and F-35 aircraft. US forces have so far been engaged primarily in counter narcotics missions, and have conducted at least 21 strikes on suspected drug trafficking vessels since September.
Read More: Venezuela Caught Between a Peace Effort and an Illusion of Protection
The CIA has declined to comment on reported covert activities, while the Pentagon directed inquiries to the White House. A senior official confirmed “President Trump is prepared to use every element of American power to stop drugs from flooding into our country and to bring those responsible to justice.”
Washington has accused Maduro of involvement in drug trafficking and plans to designate the Cartel de los Soles as a foreign terrorist organization, alleging that Maduro leads the network; accusations which the Venezuelan President denied.
The Trump administration is also considering options, including attempting to remove Maduro from power. Washington has doubled reward for information leading to Maduro’s arrest to $50 million.
On the other hand, Maduro’s government has outlined, on national television, a potential defensive strategy in the event of US military action, including a “prolonged resistance” plan involving small unit operations across more than 280 locations.
As the United States signals readiness for a new operational phase and maintains a military posture near Venezuela, the situation remains uncertain with no confirmed timeline for potential action.
