Trump Authorizes Covert CIA Operations in Venezuela Amid Military Intervention Fears

President Trump Discusses Potential Military Action Against Venezuela In a recent statement, President Donald Trump appeared to confirm reports that he authorized covert CIA operations inside Venezuela, sparking concerns about the potential for military intervention in the South American country. According to sources, Trump's comments came in response to a question about a New York Times report detailing the operation. The president portrayed it as part of a pressure campaign against the Venezuelan drug trade, saying "We've almost totally stopped it by sea. Now we'll stop it by land." The U.S. military has reportedly struck several boats carrying drugs in recent weeks, with the latest incident occurring on Tuesday. The administration has built up forces in the Caribbean, prompting questions about whether the operation involves something larger, such as regime change. Critics of Trump's approach argue that military action could exacerbate the humanitarian crisis in Venezuela, where millions are struggling to access basic necessities like food and medicine. "This is a recipe for disaster," said Maria Paez Victor, a Venezuelan-American activist. "We need diplomacy and dialogue, not military intervention." Supporters of the administration's actions, however, see it as a necessary step to combat the flow of illicit goods into the United States. "The Venezuelan government has failed to address its own corruption and human rights abuses," said Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart (R-FL), who has been a vocal critic of Maduro's regime. "It's time for us to take action." Background context is essential in understanding the situation: Venezuela has been embroiled in a deepening economic crisis, with hyperinflation and food shortages plaguing the country. The opposition-led National Assembly has called for free and fair elections, but President Nicolas Maduro has refused to step down. The U.S. has imposed several rounds of sanctions on Venezuelan officials and entities, aiming to pressure the government into making concessions. However, critics argue that these measures have had limited impact and may even be counterproductive. As tensions continue to rise, it remains unclear what the next steps will be. The White House has not provided further details about the covert operation or its potential implications for U.S.-Venezuela relations. Byline: Franco Ordoñez and Leila Fadel, NPR Note: This article is based on a previous report by NPR's Morning Edition, which included an interview with President Trump. *Reporting by Npr.*