U.S. President Donald Trump revealed plans for a dramatic escalation in anti-drug operations during a Fox News interview on January 8, 2026, declaring: “We’re gonna start hitting land with regard to the cartels.” The announcement comes amid heightened tensions in Latin America and follows recent U.S. military actions in the Caribbean.
Venezuela Oil Grab & Corporate Skepticism 🛢️
Trump doubled down on controversial plans for Venezuela’s oil reserves, claiming the U.S. would earn “trillions” by rebuilding the country’s energy sector through American companies. However, major oil firms remain hesitant, with Friday’s White House meeting reportedly being expanded to address concerns.
Military Moves & Political Drama 🔥
The proposed land strikes follow last week’s raid that captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, now facing federal charges in New York. Vice President JD Vance added fuel to the fire, stating part of his role is ensuring Venezuela’s interim government “does what the United States needs.”
Meanwhile, Trump’s shifting stance on opposition leader María Corina Machado—from dismissal to scheduling a Washington meeting—has left observers questioning the administration’s endgame. No elections are planned for Venezuela despite ongoing instability.
