ALWAGHT- Trump intensifies the US approach to Venezuela with covert CIA initiatives, a naval buildup, and the rejection of a proposed transition deal, seeking greater control over key oil assets.
The New York Times reports that President Donald Trump has authorized the CIA to conduct covert operations in Venezuela as the US increases pressure on President Nicolás Maduro amid preparations for potential military escalation. Alongside a major naval deployment in the Caribbean, the administration has also engaged in indirect talks with Maduro, who reportedly offered to step down after a short delay—an offer the White House rejected.
Although the specifics of the CIA operations remain unknown, officials say Trump has not approved the use of ground forces. Any expanded campaign would begin with non-conventional measures such as sabotage, cyber operations, or information warfare. Pentagon planners have drafted additional military options, and Trump has twice convened senior advisers to review contingency plans.
Publicly, Trump frames the US campaign around narcotics and migration issues, but advisers say he has privately linked the strategy to securing long-term access to Venezuelan oil assets. The administration continues to pursue a dual-track approach—applying military and political pressure while keeping diplomatic channels open—without committing to a final strategy.
The United States has assembled its largest Caribbean military presence since the Cuban Missile Crisis, with the Gerald R. Ford carrier group and roughly 15,000 personnel deployed. At the same time, Washington is escalating political pressure by labeling the Cartel de los Soles a terrorist organization, potentially paving the way for future action. Controversy continues over US strikes on alleged drug-trafficking boats, which have killed more than 80 people and prompted criticism over legality, targeting, and lack of evidence.
