Trump Administration Plans New Offensive Against Venezuela

The Trump administration is reportedly preparing to escalate its operations against Venezuela, signaling a significant shift in its strategy towards President Nicolas Maduro. According to a report by Reuters, four U.S. officials, who requested anonymity, indicated that initial actions may involve covert operations. As of now, the timing and extent of these operations remain unclear, and there is no confirmation on whether President Donald Trump has finalized the decision.

In recent weeks, the U.S. military has increased its presence in the Caribbean, further heightening tensions with Venezuela. Two officials mentioned that among the options being considered is the potential overthrow of Maduro. While the Pentagon and the CIA have refrained from commenting on these developments, a senior administration official has stated that “all options remain on the table.”

U.S. Designation of Terrorist Organization

In a related move, the U.S. is set to designate the Cartel de los Soles as a foreign terrorist organization, with accusations that Maduro leads this group. Maduro has denied these allegations, claiming that the U.S. is attempting to orchestrate his ousting. The military buildup includes the arrival of the U.S. Navy’s largest aircraft carrier, the USS Gerald R. Ford, which has joined other military assets in the region.

The intensifying pressure on Maduro has raised concerns about the potential for prolonged chaos in Venezuela, a nation already rich in oil resources but plagued by instability. During Trump’s first term, U.S. officials conducted war games to evaluate the aftermath of a potential collapse of Maduro’s regime. The projections indicated a scenario where violence could erupt as various factions compete for power.

Concerns Over Military Engagement

Douglas Farah, a consultant specializing in Latin American security, warned that Venezuela could experience “chaos for a sustained period of time with no possibility of ending it.” His comments reflect the fears that escalating military operations could lead to unpredictable outcomes in the region.

In response to the situation, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer has requested a classified briefing from Secretary of State Marco Rubio regarding the military’s escalating actions. Schumer expressed his apprehensions about potential conflict, stating, “The last thing Americans want right now is another endless war.”

Former national security adviser John Bolton has characterized Trump’s approach as having “put the gun on the table” in negotiations with Maduro, emphasizing the increased military pressure while hinting at the possibility of dialogue. He noted that drug trafficking organizations are likely to adapt to U.S. maneuvers, ensuring that cartels will continue to explore new routes for narcotics.

The evolving situation in Venezuela remains a critical point of concern for U.S. policymakers and military strategists alike, as they weigh the ramifications of their actions on both Venezuelan society and broader regional stability.