US Authorizes CIA to Conduct Covert Operations in Venezuela, Maduro Condemns Move

Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro condemned a decision by US President Donald Trump to authorize the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) to conduct covert operations in Venezuela. Trump accused Caracas of releasing thousands of prisoners and mentally ill people to enter the US and smuggle large quantities of drugs. The move has sparked a heated debate, with Maduro calling it a "CIA-organized coup."

Key Takeaways:

• US President Donald Trump authorized the CIA to conduct covert operations in Venezuela, citing concerns over drug trafficking and security threats.
• Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro condemned the move, calling it a "CIA-organized coup" and accusing the US of meddling in Venezuela's internal affairs.
• Maduro also denied allegations that Venezuela was releasing prisoners and mentally ill people to enter the US and smuggle drugs.
• The CIA's new powers allow the agency to conduct missions in Venezuela and the Caribbean, as well as coordinate with other US military operations in the region.
• The Trump administration has made it clear that its ultimate goal is to remove Maduro from power, and has taken steps to support anti-Maduro groups in the country.
• Since September, the US has attacked five ships in international waters off the coast of Venezuela suspected of carrying drugs, killing 27 people.
• The US has designated drug cartels as terrorist organizations and notified Congress that it is in a "non-international armed conflict" with them.
• The US has approximately 10,000 American troops, eight warships, and one submarine stationed in the Caribbean, primarily in Puerto Rico.

Statistics:

• 10,000 American troops are stationed in the Caribbean, primarily in Puerto Rico.
• Eight warships and one submarine are currently stationed in the Caribbean.
• Five ships were attacked by the US in international waters off the coast of Venezuela suspected of carrying drugs, resulted in 27 deaths.
• 27 people killed in the US strikes on ships suspected of carrying drugs.
• Approximately 10,000 prisoners and mentally ill people are alleged to have been released by Venezuela to enter the US and smuggle drugs (note: this claim has not been substantiated).

Sources:

• Xinhua (State Council News): "US President Trump authorizes CIA to conduct operations in Venezuela"
• New York Times: "Trump administration plans to remove Maduro from power, officials say"
• White House: Notification to Congress regarding the "non-international armed conflict" with drug cartels