In a statement that could escalate geopolitical tensions in Latin America, U.S. President Donald Trump said on Monday that he does not exclude the possibility of a ground operation in Venezuela.
“I rule out nothing— we just need to take care of Venezuela,” Trump told reporters when asked whether he was prepared to rule out any action, including ground troops.
Mounting Tensions Between the U.S. and Venezuela
The move comes amid renewed tensions with the government of President Nicolás Maduro, who has repeatedly warned that Venezuela is facing “the most serious threat in a century” from alleged U.S. aggression.
Meanwhile, Washington has accused Caracas of failing to stem drug trafficking operations, a claim Maduro’s administration has strongly denied.
In support of their stance, the United States has deployed significant military assets to the Caribbean:
- Eight U.S. warships
- One submarine
- Over 16,000 troops
Since September 2025, U.S. operations in the region have reportedly destroyed at least 20 vessels and killed 76 individuals suspected of participating in drug trafficking from Venezuela.
Covert CIA Operations Authorized
Sources from American media outlets suggest that President Trump has already authorized covert CIA operations inside Venezuela. The U.S. is also reportedly preparing direct strikes against drug cartels operating in Venezuelan territory.
According to reports, a revised set of military plans was presented to Trump on November 11, 2025. After reviewing them, the president said he had formed a “clear view on what needs to be done” regarding Caracas.
Political analysts warn that any military intervention could further destabilize the region and trigger international backlash.
