U.S. President Donald Trump has authorized the CIA to conduct covert operations in Venezuela, escalating tensions with Caracas amid accusations of drug trafficking and migrant releases. The move, revealed during a White House press briefing Wednesday, drew swift condemnation from Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro, who called it a CIA-backed coup attempt.
🚨 "They’ve emptied prisons into the U.S. and flooded our streets with drugs," Trump claimed, though he provided no evidence. When asked if the CIA was authorized to target Maduro directly, Trump dodged: "Venezuela is feeling the heat."
⚓ The New York Times reports the CIA now has clearance for lethal missions in Venezuela and the Caribbean, with 10,000 U.S. troops and warships already deployed near Puerto Rico. Trump also hinted at potential land-based strikes, stating: "We’re looking at land… the sea’s under control."
Maduro fired back, accusing Washington of "military expansionism" disguised as anti-drug efforts. U.S. officials privately admit their goal is to oust him, per the NYT. But DEA data shows Venezuela isn’t a major drug source for the U.S.—raising questions about the administration’s motives.
💡 Why it matters: The CIA’s history in Latin America (think Cold War coups) adds fuel to fears of intervention. With Trump’s ‘maximum pressure’ strategy intensifying, could this spark a new era of proxy conflicts? Stay tuned.
