The United States is reportedly preparing a new phase of operations targeting Venezuela, escalating tensions in the region and increasing pressure on President Nicolás Maduro, according to multiple U.S. officials who spoke anonymously to Reuters.
While the details remain limited, sources say the upcoming operations could involve covert actions, marking a significant step beyond previous diplomatic and economic pressure. Officials emphasized that the scale, timing, and authorization of the actions have not been fully finalized, leaving uncertainties about how quickly the U.S. could proceed.
The reported operations coincide with a growing U.S. military presence in the Caribbean, including warships, submarines, and F-35 aircraft. Officials frame the buildup as part of a counter-narcotics campaign, targeting networks allegedly linked to Maduro’s government, including the notorious Cartel de los Soles.
One potential measure under consideration is formally designating the Cartel de los Soles as a Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO). Such a move would allow U.S. authorities to freeze assets, impose sanctions, and target individuals connected to the cartel more aggressively.
Sources also indicate that U.S. policymakers are exploring options to remove Maduro from power, although officials caution that no final decision has been made. Such a step would mark a dramatic escalation from prior U.S. strategies, which primarily relied on sanctions, diplomatic isolation, and targeted counter-narcotics efforts.
The Trump administration views the plan as essential to curbing drug trafficking into the United States. One senior official told Reuters, “President Trump is prepared to use every element of American power to stop the flow of illegal drugs and hold those responsible accountable.”
Human rights and legal experts have expressed serious concerns about the plan. They warn that covert action or military escalation could destabilize the country, violate international law, and produce unintended consequences for Venezuelan civilians.
From Caracas, President Maduro has strongly condemned the reports, accusing Washington of attempting to overthrow his government. He reiterated that Venezuela would resist any foreign intervention, framing the U.S. actions as a continuation of historical attempts to undermine the nation’s sovereignty.
The situation reflects a broader U.S. strategy that combines military readiness, covert operations, and legal measures to pressure Maduro’s regime while addressing national security and counter-narcotics objectives.
As the next steps remain unclear, both regional and global observers are closely monitoring the potential escalation. Any action by Washington could significantly affect Venezuelan stability, U.S.-Venezuela relations, and broader dynamics in Latin America.
The coming weeks are likely to be critical in determining whether the U.S. moves forward with covert operations, applies further legal designations, or continues its pressure campaign through diplomatic and economic channels.
Watch video below :
