The American network reported, citing four informed sources, including two American officials familiar with the planning, that President Donald Trump has not yet given the green light. However, discussions include executing drone strikes targeting leaders of smuggling groups and drug manufacturing labs. The sources explained that the recent military escalation came as a result of the American administration’s belief that Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has not done enough to stop the flow of drugs into the United States. A senior official stated that Trump is “prepared to use all elements of American power to stop the flow of drugs and bring those responsible to justice,” while the Pentagon declined to comment.
The report noted that Washington has increased its military presence in the region, deploying eight ships and more than four thousand soldiers, along with F-35 fighters in Puerto Rico. American forces have previously targeted what Washington said were smugglers and drugs, although some operations lacked clear evidence.
These developments occur as the Trump administration continues to pressure Maduro, who was charged by the United States in 2020 with drug trafficking. Washington recently increased the reward for his capture to 50 million dollars.
