The United States is preparing to launch a new, more aggressive phase of operations targeting Venezuela, according to four U.S. officials familiar with the plans. While full details remain unclear, these sources say covert action is likely to play a central role — signaling a significant escalation in Washington’s push against President Nicolás Maduro.

Rising Stakes in the Caribbean

Over recent months, the U.S. has dramatically increased its military presence in the Caribbean. Central to this buildup is the USS Gerald R. Ford carrier strike group, which has already joined several other warships, a nuclear submarine, and F-35 aircraft deployed nearby. Reuters+2Reuters+2

Officials suggest the initial phase of the new effort may rely on the CIA, potentially unfolding in a stealthy, deniable manner. But they did not rule out more direct options. According to the sources, top U.S. policymakers are open to almost every tool — including a possible attempt to overthrow Maduro. Reuters

A Focus on Drug Trafficking and Cartels

A central justification for the operation is Venezuela’s alleged role in narcotics trafficking. Washington intends to designate the so-called Cartel de los Soles — which the administration accuses of being linked to Maduro — as a foreign terrorist organization

If that designation goes forward, U.S. officials believe it would unlock new legal authorities: targeting Maduro’s financial network, seizing infrastructure, and intensifying pressure on his government.

Military Pressure Meets Resistance

In response to the buildup, Venezuelan authorities are preparing for a defensive posture. Recent reports indicate the Maduro government is considering “guerrilla-style” resistance if faced with a full-blown U.S. intervention — small military units operating across the country, sabotage tactics, and irregular warfare. Barmala Today

The Venezuelan military, however, is not without serious challenges. According to sources, its forces suffer from low pay, limited training, and aging equipment. Reuters+1 This raises questions about how sustainable a conventional conflict could be — and whether asymmetric tactics might be more viable for Caracas.

Legal and Political Uncertainties

At this point, key questions remain about the legality and scope of the planned U.S. operations. Neither the Pentagon nor the CIA have publicly confirmed the new phase. A senior U.S. official says that President Trump is prepared to use “every element of American power” to curb the drug trade and bring suspected traffickers to justice.

Meanwhile, there are reports of diplomatic backchannels between Washington and Caracas, though it’s unclear how these discussions might affect the timing or scale of operations

International and Human Rights Risks

The military buildup and covert action raise serious legal and ethical concerns. Human rights groups have already condemned past U.S. strikes in the region as possible extrajudicial killings Some U.S. allies are warning that aggressive action may violate international law.

In Caracas, Maduro remains defiant. He has denied any involvement in narco-trafficking and insists that any U.S. intervention would be met with fierce resistance from both civilians and the armed forces