President Donald Trump has signaled potential military action against drug smugglers inside Venezuela. He made these comments to journalists while leaving the White House on Tuesday.
Trump stated he would target cartels operating within Venezuela's borders. "We're going to look very closely at the cartels coming by land," he said without providing specific details.
The United States has already conducted several deadly strikes against alleged drug boats from Venezuela. Sources indicate the U.S. also plans drone attacks against narcotics traffickers inside the country.
Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro denies involvement in drug trafficking. He claims the United States is attempting to force him from power. This escalation comes amid ongoing tensions between the two nations.
Is there justification for Maduro's fears of a larger American attack on Venezuelan soil? The situation reflects the deepening conflict over drug enforcement and political control in the region.
Military action inside another sovereign nation represents a significant escalation. Both sides appear to be using the drug trade issue to advance their political objectives.