Key Concepts:
- US-Venezuela relations
- Escalation of US pressure on Maduro government
- Military buildup in the Caribbean
- Covert CIA operations
- Allegations of drug trafficking
- Potential overthrow of Maduro
- Venezuela's oil reserves
- FAA warnings and flight cancellations
New Phase of Venezuela Operations by the US
The United States is preparing to initiate a new phase of operations concerning Venezuela in the upcoming days. This escalation of pressure is being directed at President Nicolás Maduro's government by the Trump administration. This information comes from four US officials who spoke to Reuters on the condition of anonymity due to the sensitive nature of these planned actions.
Military Buildup and Covert Operations
A military buildup in the Caribbean has been in progress for several months. Furthermore, US President Donald Trump has authorized covert CIA operations within Venezuela. The US government has been evaluating various options related to Venezuela, primarily to address what it describes as Maduro's involvement in supplying illegal drugs that have resulted in American deaths.
Options Under Consideration and Maduro's Response
According to two US officials, the options being considered include attempts to overthrow Maduro. Maduro, who has been in power since 2013, has consistently denied any connections to the illegal drug trade. He has asserted that Trump's objective is to remove him from power and that both Venezuelan citizens and the military will oppose any such endeavor. Maduro has also characterized US actions as an attempt to gain control over Venezuela's oil resources.
Uncertainty Regarding Timing and Scope
Reuters has been unable to ascertain the precise timing or the full extent of these new operations. It remains unclear whether President Trump has made a definitive decision to proceed with these actions.
Official Responses and Flight Cancellations
The Venezuelan Communications Ministry has not yet responded to a request for comment. The Pentagon has referred inquiries to the White House, and the CIA has declined to comment on the matter. In a related development, three international airlines canceled flights from Venezuela on Saturday, following a warning from the FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) about a "potentially hazardous situation."
Synthesis/Conclusion
The US is reportedly preparing to launch a new, intensified phase of operations targeting Venezuela, involving a military buildup and covert CIA activities. These actions are framed by the US as a response to alleged drug trafficking by the Maduro government. While options like attempting to overthrow Maduro are reportedly being considered, the exact details, timing, and final decision-making remain unconfirmed. Maduro denies the allegations and views US actions as an attempt to seize Venezuela's oil. The situation has also led to flight cancellations due to FAA safety concerns.
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