US President Donald Trump has intensified pressure on Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro by doubling the reward for information leading to his capture. Additionally, US warships have positioned themselves close to Venezuela amidst increasing tensions and allegations of drug trafficking.
Background on Nicolás Maduro
Nicolás Maduro became the president of Venezuela in 2013 after serving under Hugo Chávez. Maduro’s political career began as a bus driver and union leader. His tenure has been marked by significant political turmoil and economic decline in Venezuela.
Under the leadership of Maduro and Chávez, the United Socialist Party of Venezuela has consolidated control over key governmental institutions. In the controversial 2024 presidential election, the electoral council declared Maduro the winner, despite strong opposition claims of election fraud. The US and other nations deemed the election illegitimate, recognizing Edmundo González as the rightful president. Despite this, Maduro remains in firm control of the military and government.
Trump’s Focus on Venezuela
Trump’s administration ties Venezuela’s political situation to immigration issues, citing a significant influx of Venezuelan migrants to the US. Since 2013, nearly eight million Venezuelans have fled due to worsening economic and political conditions. The US has become a destination for hundreds of thousands of these migrants.
Trump has accused Maduro of pushing inmates to migrate to the US. He has also prioritized combating drug trafficking and has labeled two Venezuelan criminal organizations as Foreign Terrorist Organizations. Among them, he claims the Cartel de los Soles is linked directly to Maduro—accusations that Maduro strongly rejects.
US Military Deployment in the Caribbean
- 15,000 US troops have been deployed in the Caribbean.
- This is the largest US military operation in the region since the Panama invasion in 1989.
- Over 20 military strikes have been conducted against suspected drug trafficking vessels.
- More than 80 individuals have reportedly died in these operations.
The Trump administration describes its actions as part of an armed conflict against drug traffickers, whom they label as “narco terrorists.” However, some legal experts argue that these strikes may be unlawful, claiming they constitute attacks on civilians.
The Reality of Drug Trafficking from Venezuela
While US officials suggest Venezuela plays a major role in drug trafficking, many experts contend it primarily serves as a transit point. Colombia remains the world’s leading cocaine producer, and the majority of that drug reaches the US via alternative routes.
According to a 2020 US Drug Enforcement Administration report, approximately three-quarters of cocaine entering the US comes from Pacific routes. Despite this, US military operations continue to focus heavily on the Caribbean region.
Implications of Trump’s Ultimatum
On November 21, Trump reportedly gave Maduro a one-week ultimatum to leave the country, which Maduro did not accept. Following this, Trump declared Venezuelan airspace closed, hinting at potential military action in the future.
Trump’s administration has not ruled out deploying troops on the ground should conditions warrant it. Military analysts suggest that the scale of current operations indicates preparations for more significant actions in the region.
