Trump Signals Decision on Venezuela After Top Officials Weigh Options

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Trump Signals Decision on Venezuela After Top Officials Weigh Options

President Trump recently indicated he is nearing a decision regarding U.S. actions in Venezuela. During an interview with CBS News aboard Air Force One, Trump stated, “I sort of have made up my mind,” although he refrained from providing specific details.

Key Discussions among U.S. Officials

High-ranking officials within the Trump administration are actively deliberating potential military operations in Venezuela. This marks the third consecutive day of meetings at the White House, where key figures, including:

Vice President JD Vance
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth
Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman Dan Caine
Secretary of State Marco Rubio

These officials engaged with Trump to discuss various strategic options in light of ongoing concerns regarding Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro.

Military Operations Under Consideration

Sources reveal that military options have been under review since a briefing earlier in the week. These discussions included:

Targeted military strikes on land
Responses to alleged drug trafficking activities linked to Maduro

The U.S. military has reportedly engaged in recent strikes against vessels associated with drug smuggling operations, resulting in numerous casualties.

International Reactions

The U.S. has yet to disclose its specific plans in Venezuela to its allies. Some Western countries have expressed skepticism about the direct connection between Maduro and drug cartels, despite U.S. assertions and a 2020 federal indictment naming him a high-profile trafficker.

French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot criticized U.S. military operations, stating they breach international law. He underscored that military actions raise significant concerns, especially given France’s interests in the Caribbean.

U.S. Military Presence in the Region

This week, the USS Gerald R. Ford carrier strike group arrived in the U.S. Southern Command’s operational area. This development enhances the existing U.S. military presence, which includes: