President Donald Trump of the United States has firmly denied recent media reports suggesting that the U.S. is planning to launch military strikes on Venezuelan targets.
When questioned by reporters about the possibility of an imminent attack on Venezuelan military installations, Trump’s response was a straightforward “No,” as reported by Europa Press.
This denial comes shortly after American outlets, including The Wall Street Journal, alleged that the Pentagon had identified multiple targets related to drug trafficking within Venezuela, such as fuel depots and bases used by Nicolás Maduro’s regime.
Deputy Press Secretary Anna Kelly also dismissed these claims, emphasizing that any announcements regarding defense or national security must come directly from the president.
According to an unnamed senior U.S. official cited by the Nuevo Herald, Maduro "could find himself trapped in his own country" if such an operation were to proceed. The source mentioned that "more than one general is ready to surrender him."
Speculation about an aerial offensive intensified following the deployment of a naval strike group, led by the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier Gerald R. Ford, to Latin America as part of Washington's border security strategy.
The movement was perceived as a potential precursor to a military escalation against Caracas.
News reports described the alleged offensive as a “new phase” in Washington’s pressure campaign, aimed at targeting military and logistical structures supposedly linked to the Cartel of the Suns, a notorious drug trafficking organization.
Nevertheless, U.S. officials maintain that no military action is scheduled “at this time.”
These declarations follow a series of U.S. military operations in the Caribbean, which have involved attacks on vessels allegedly associated with the Tren de Aragua, a Venezuelan group classified as a terrorist organization.
The White House has ramped up pressure on Nicolás Maduro’s regime, which Trump accuses of leading a drug cartel.
Trump also confirmed the authorization of CIA covert operations in Venezuela, citing that the South American nation “has released prisoners to the United States and allowed drug flow through maritime routes.”
Meanwhile, both Democratic and Republican lawmakers have voiced concerns over the legality of such operations and are advocating for a resolution to prohibit the use of armed forces in hostilities against Venezuela without Congressional approval.
Despite the increased U.S. military presence raising alarms in the region, military analysts see a large-scale invasion as unlikely.
Retired Colonel Mark F. Cancian from the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) explained that the current force "is insufficient to occupy Venezuela," but could "carry out precision strikes or cruise missile attacks on strategic targets."
In contrast, Elliott Abrams, former U.S. Special Envoy for Venezuela, told columnist Andrés Oppenheimer that Trump does not seek a prolonged conflict but rather quick, decisive actions, akin to the 2020 strike he ordered against Iranian General Qasem Soleimani.
Frequently Asked Questions about U.S. and Venezuela Relations
Is the U.S. planning a military invasion of Venezuela?
The U.S. government, including President Trump, has denied any plans for a military invasion of Venezuela. There is no scheduled military action at this time.
Why is the U.S. increasing pressure on Nicolás Maduro’s regime?
The U.S. accuses Nicolás Maduro of leading a drug cartel and has increased pressure through sanctions and operations to curb drug trafficking linked to his regime.
What is the Cartel of the Suns?
The Cartel of the Suns is a term used to describe a network of Venezuelan military officials allegedly involved in drug trafficking operations.