US Poised to Launch New Phase of Operations Against Venezuela, Say Officials

The United States is preparing to initiate a new phase of operations targeting Venezuela, according to four anonymous U.S. officials speaking to Reuters. This development signals an intensifying campaign by the Trump administration to pressure President Nicolás Maduro’s government.

Covert Action Likely First Step

While the full scope and timing of the operation remain unclear, two of the officials said covert operations will probably lead the effort. The Pentagon declined to clarify any plans, referring questions to the White House, and the CIA has refused to comment.

A senior administration official told Reuters that “President Trump is prepared to use every element of American power to stop drugs from flooding into our country and to bring those responsible to justice.”

Overthrow of Maduro on the Table

Among the options reportedly under consideration is a possible attempt to overthrow Maduro. The U.S. has long accused Maduro of involvement with drug trafficking, particularly through an alleged group known as the Cartel de los Soles — claims Maduro vehemently denies.

Military Buildup in the Caribbean

The intensifying pressure comes as the U.S. has reinforced its military presence in the Caribbean. On November 16, the aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford arrived with its strike group, joining multiple warships, a nuclear submarine, and F-35 jets.

Though labeled as counter-narcotics operations, officials and analysts note that the force assembly appears to exceed what would be required solely to combat drug trafficking.

Escalating Pressures and Risks

The U.S. plans to designate the Cartel de los Soles as a foreign terrorist organization. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has indicated that this designation would open up new tools, including targeting Maduro’s assets and infrastructure. Trump has also left the door open to diplomatic engagement, suggesting he may pursue both military and political tracks.

Human Rights Concerns

Since September, U.S. forces have conducted at least 21 strikes on vessels suspected of drug trafficking in the Caribbean and Pacific. These strikes are believed to have caused at least 83 deaths. Human rights organizations have strongly criticized the operations, calling them extrajudicial and a violation of international law.

Venezuela’s Potential Response