President Donald Trump announced on Thursday that his administration will soon begin apprehending drug traffickers linked to Nicolás Maduro's regime "on land," as part of an intensified effort against regional drug trafficking networks.
The U.S. leader emphasized that operations will extend beyond the Caribbean Sea, signaling a broader strategy.
"We will also be capturing them on land very soon. It's easier on land. To stop them from sending poison," Trump stated, referring to the drug flow originating from Venezuela.
These remarks came during a meeting with military personnel, held in honor of National Guard members who were killed in a shooting near the White House on Wednesday in Washington.
Earlier, in response to Trump's threat, Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro instructed the Bolivarian Military Aviation to remain "alert and ready" against what he perceives as an "imperialist threat" from the United States. He asserted that should history compel the nation to declare itself a "republic in arms," it would result in "victory."
During a ceremony marking the 105th anniversary of the Bolivarian Military Aviation, broadcast on the state channel Venezolana de Televisión, the dictator addressed air force officers while clad in an olive green uniform and a red cap, reported by EFE.
"I urge you to remain steadfast in your calmness, alert, ready, and willing to defend our rights as a nation, as a free and sovereign country, and I know you will never fail Venezuela," he declared.
Amid a scenario defined by a hardening officialist rhetoric, Nicolás Maduro stressed that Venezuela is in a decisive phase, underscoring the necessity to unite against what he terms foreign aggression. This sentiment was echoed by other high-ranking officials in the regime.
The second-in-command of the Venezuelan regime, Diosdado Cabello, openly challenged international airlines that have ceased flights to Caracas, accusing them of succumbing to political pressure and supporting the government's decision to revoke licenses from companies like Iberia, TAP, Turkish Airlines, Avianca, and Latam Colombia.
Previously, in an unexpected turn, Donald Trump hinted at the possibility of dialogue with Maduro, to which the Chavista leader responded by saying that "everything is possible" if it is based on mutual respect.
U.S. and Venezuela Relations: Key Questions
What actions has Trump announced against drug traffickers in Venezuela?
President Trump announced that the U.S. will soon begin capturing drug traffickers linked to Nicolás Maduro's regime on land as part of a broader strategy to tackle regional drug networks.
How has Nicolás Maduro reacted to Trump's announcement?
Nicolás Maduro responded by ordering the Bolivarian Military Aviation to stay alert against what he considers an imperialist threat from the U.S., and assured that if Venezuela needed to declare itself a "republic in arms," it would result in victory.
What has been the impact on airlines operating in Venezuela?
Diosdado Cabello, a top official in Venezuela, criticized international airlines that have stopped flights to Caracas, accusing them of political influence. The Venezuelan government has revoked licenses from several airlines, including Iberia and Avianca.