In a recent development, President Donald Trump addressed concerns regarding the possibility of military strikes against Venezuela. He firmly stated that such actions are not under consideration, insisting that the heightened military presence in the region is focused on combating drug trafficking rather than regime change in Caracas.
The United States has notably ramped up its military assets, deploying eight Navy ships in the Caribbean and sending F-35 stealth warplanes to Puerto Rico. Additionally, an aircraft carrier strike group is making its way to the region, raising alarms in Venezuela about potential US intentions.
When questioned by a journalist during a flight on Air Force One about reports suggesting imminent strikes on Venezuela, Trump replied with a definitive “No.” This sentiment was echoed by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who refuted claims made in a Miami Herald article regarding the potential for military action. Rubio took to social media to assert that the sources behind the article were misled, branding the report as false.
The US has been actively engaged in military operations targeting alleged drug-smuggling activities in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific since early September, during which at least 62 individuals have reportedly lost their lives, and 14 boats along with a semi-submersible vessel have been destroyed. While the Trump administration views these actions as necessary measures to safeguard national security against drug trafficking, critics argue they amount to extrajudicial killings, as these operations often target known traffickers without due process.
The military maneuvers have included displays of force with B-52 and B-1B bombers conducting sorties near Venezuela’s coastline. The most recent mission took place on Monday, further escalating regional tensions. In response to these developments, Venezuelan officials have accused the United States of concocting a narrative of war, suggesting that these military actions are part of a broader plot to destabilize and depose President Nicolas Maduro’s government.
