With Washington claiming legal grounds for attacks on alleged Venezuelan drug cartels, speculation grows about President Donald Trump’s intentions toward Nicolás Maduro. Trump stated last week that the United States is in “armed conflict” with drug cartels. He asserted legal authority for at least four strikes in international waters, resulting in 21 deaths in recent weeks.
Both Democratic and Republican lawmakers question the legality of these strikes. CNN reported on a Justice Department memo indicating Trump has the authority to use deadly force against drug cartels, which allegedly threaten Americans. The US has accused Maduro of leading a cartel and authorized the CIA to conduct lethal operations in the region.
Maduro as a Target
Attorney General Pam Bondi testified in Congress, stating, “What I can tell you is Maduro is a narco-terrorist.” She highlighted the $50 million bounty for Maduro’s capture. Trump, like his predecessor Joe Biden, does not recognize Maduro as Venezuela’s legitimate president, claiming he fraudulently retained power after last year’s elections.
Military Movements
The US has deployed a small Navy armada and F-35 warplanes to Puerto Rico, with the Caracas government placing its military on alert, alleging that US planes flew near its coast. Evan Ellis, a Latin America researcher, noted that these actions suggest potential escalation. He stated, “President Trump, my general sense is — his patience has run out.”
Trump hinted at expanding operations against Venezuelan traffickers, saying, “They’re not coming in by sea anymore, so now we’ll have to start looking about the land.” Frank Mora, a former deputy assistant secretary of Defense, suggested that a US attack on drug trafficking targets in Venezuela is possible. He remarked, “On one hand, the president says he wants to dismantle the drug traffic. But at the same time, the hope is that this leads to the collapse of the regime.”
As lawmakers express growing opposition to US military deployment, the clock is ticking for the Trump administration. While military experts debate strategies, the final decision rests with Trump, who may seek a deal or escalate actions against Maduro.
