The United States has launched military strikes on Venezuelan targets, including key military facilities, following orders from President Trump, U.S. The actions mark a sharp escalation in the administration’s campaign against Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro.
The strikes come after months of U.S. military buildup in the region, including the deployment of the USS Gerald R. Ford aircraft carrier and multiple other naval vessels in the Caribbean. Recent U.S. operations include the seizure of two Venezuelan oil tankers, strikes on more than 30 boats allegedly carrying drugs, and an attack on a dock area reportedly used to load narcotics.
The Trump administration has accused Maduro of drug trafficking and collaborating with gangs labeled as terrorist organizations, allegations Maduro denies. Ahead of the strikes, Maduro expressed willingness to engage with the U.S. on drug, oil, and migration issues “wherever they want to, whenever they want.” He has repeatedly claimed the U.S. seeks to remove him through intimidation and force.
U.S. forces in the region number around 15,000, supported by 11 naval vessels, including five guided missile destroyers, two cruisers, an amphibious assault ship, and transport docks. Fighter jets are stationed in Puerto Rico, alongside aircraft capable of carrying special forces, such as CV-22 Ospreys and C-17s.
The U.S. has designated two groups linked to Maduro’s regime the Cartel de los Soles and Tren de Aragua as international terrorist organizations. While some experts question these labels, U.S. officials maintain that these gangs are tools of the Venezuelan government for drug trafficking and regional destabilization.
Maduro and top aides face U.S. federal charges of narco-terrorism and drug trafficking. Prosecutors allege he deliberately used cocaine to harm the U.S., and the administration has set a $50 million reward for his capture.
