Trump Keeps Option of Striking Venezuela

(MENAFN) President Donald Trump has refused to dismiss the possibility of launching a military strike on mainland Venezuela, accusing the country of exporting gang members and narcotics to the U.S.

Trump’s comments come as tensions between the two nations have reached new heights. In recent weeks, the U.S. has deployed three warships and approximately 4,000 troops to the Southern Caribbean, claiming the operation targets drug cartels. However, Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has repeatedly stated that his government has already dismantled trafficking operations within its borders.

While speaking to reporters in Morristown, New Jersey, on Sunday, Trump was questioned about the potential for a strike on Venezuela and whether he was concerned about escalation with Maduro. He responded, “We’ll see what happens. Look, Venezuela is sending us their gang members, their drug dealers, and drugs. It’s not acceptable.”

On the other hand, Maduro has rejected U.S. claims and maintains that his administration has eradicated all significant drug trafficking operations. In a Thursday interview with media, the Venezuelan president accused Washington of using the fight against drug traffickers as a guise to gain control over Venezuela's abundant natural resources. Maduro described the U.S. actions as part of a broader “war plan” to dominate the world.

The tension between the two countries has simmered for years. Washington did not recognize Maduro's reelection in 2018 and imposed heavy sanctions, while backing opposition forces. Recently, military confrontations have escalated, with the U.S. sinking a Venezuelan boat, which it claimed was carrying members of the Tren de Aragua gang. In retaliation, two Venezuelan fighter jets flew over a U.S. warship. Trump warned that any Venezuelan aircraft perceived as a threat to American vessels could be shot down.

As the U.S. intensifies its military presence, Venezuela has increased its troop deployment in response. Last month, Caracas moved 15,000 troops near the Colombian border, later raising the number to 25,000. These areas are considered key “drug trafficking routes,” according to Venezuela.

Meanwhile, Maria Zakharova, spokeswoman for Russia's Foreign Ministry, expressed concern, warning that the situation is being “unacceptably escalated” and could have severe consequences for both regional and global security.

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