Trump threatens to strike Venezuelan territory if necessary
President Trump warns that US military action could target Venezuela to combat alleged drug trafficking routes to the United States
President Donald Trump has stated that the United States is prepared to carry out strikes on Venezuelan territory if necessary to halt alleged drug trafficking from the region. Speaking after a cabinet meeting at the White House, Trump discussed recent operations targeting boats suspected of smuggling narcotics through the Caribbean, emphasizing his administration’s determination to stop the flow of drugs from countries such as Venezuela and Colombia.
Trump announced that he has given the Pentagon full authority to act against drug traffickers. “I want those ships eliminated, and, if needed, we will attack on Venezuelan soil just as we have at sea. There’s very little coming by sea now; I think we’ve destroyed more than 90 percent,” the President declared. He also claimed that US forces are aware of the drug smuggling routes and signaled that land raids could begin soon to further disrupt the illegal trade.
When questioned about orders for military action off the Venezuelan coast, President Trump insisted that both Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and the Pentagon have full authorization and are following all relevant laws. Secretary Hegseth added that a commanding admiral was fully empowered during a recent strike and said that operational details are sometimes unclear until after missions are completed.
