Trump Evaluates Military Options for Venezuela Amid Rising Caribbean Tensions

Post by : Raina Nasser

WASHINGTON – The Trump administration is ramping up its considerations of military action in Venezuela, as senior officials convene for high-level discussions at the White House this week, according to sources confirmed on Friday.

In a strategic maneuver, President Donald Trump has increased U.S. military assets in the Caribbean, deploying F-35 jets, warships, and a nuclear submarine, following a series of deadly operations targeting drug vessels in the area.

This week, the USS Gerald Ford aircraft carrier strike group has positioned itself in Latin American waters, accompanied by over 5,000 troops and 75 aircraft, indicating a readiness for operations targeting Venezuela.

Trump hinted on Friday that a decision regarding military action may come soon, stating, “I can’t tell you what it would be but I sort of made up my mind,” during a conversation aboard Air Force One.

Multiple high-ranking officials attended Homeland Security Council meetings this week to discuss several strategies. A smaller session took place on Wednesday, followed by a more extensive briefing on Thursday that included Vice President JD Vance, Homeland Security Adviser Stephen Miller, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, and Gen. Dan Caine, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. Trump was also present at the Thursday meeting in the Situation Room, where various options were evaluated, though specific details remain undisclosed.

While Trump has considered the possibility of ground operations in Venezuela, he insists that regime change is not his aim. Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro accused Trump of trying to oust him forcibly.

In August, the U.S. increased the reward for information leading to Maduro’s arrest to $50 million, citing alleged connections to drug trafficking and organized crime. U.S. military actions in the region have already led to the deaths of at least 80 individuals across more than 20 operations targeting drug vessels. These actions have sparked criticism from certain Democratic lawmakers, legal analysts, and European allies, raising legal concerns.

Reports suggest that the U.S. might be revamping a Cold War-era naval base in the Caribbean, hinting at long-term military endeavors that could reach into Venezuela. Meanwhile, Venezuelan forces are reportedly preparing to meet potential U.S. operations with guerrilla tactics and sabotage, utilizing aging, Russian-made weaponry.

Despite the considerations for military intervention, it remains an unpopular option among American voters. A recent Reuters/Ipsos poll indicated only 35% of respondents favor using military force in Venezuela without the government’s consent, even to combat illegal drug trafficking.

Tensions have also escalated with Colombia, as Trump and Colombian President Gustavo Petro exchanged barbs. Trump accused Petro of being an “illegal drug leader” and announced sanctions, while Petro charged the U.S. with murder due to its military engagements.

As discussions continue at the White House, analysts caution that any military action in Venezuela might have substantial geopolitical and humanitarian repercussions, potentially escalating instability in the region and attracting global scrutiny.

In the upcoming days, clarity regarding the administration’s next steps is anticipated, with both the U.S. and surrounding nations remaining vigilant.