WASHINGTON, D.C. – The U.S. is reportedly considering shifting its focus from aerial assaults on drug vessels at sea to targeting land-based operations in Venezuela. While this move garners support from South Florida lawmakers, President Trump has remained silent.
Over the weekend, President Trump traveled to Florida amid reports that his administration is contemplating military strikes on Venezuelan installations. When questioned en route to Palm Beach, Trump denied any such plans.
Sources indicate this potential action is a response to Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro. The White House has increased the reward for information leading to Maduro’s arrest to $50 million. Florida Republican representatives voiced their approval on social media, with Congressman Carlos Jimenez advocating for Maduro’s removal to free Venezuela and curb drug exports from Colombia.
The U.S. continues its crackdown on drug cartels, with the Pentagon announcing recent strikes on suspected narcotics vessels. On Wednesday, under Trump’s directive, American forces destroyed a boat in the eastern Pacific, marking the 14th such attack.
These operations, resulting in at least 61 deaths, have sparked discussions on adherence to international standards and the limits on lethal force. The UN has emphasized the need for international cooperation to tackle organized crime and the illicit drug trade.
President Trump previously threatened drug cartels with land-based interventions. Currently, a U.S. naval strike force is positioned off the Caribbean coast, preparing to expand their search for cocaine smuggling routes.