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Covert operations

Venezuela Tensions Escalate as US Military Campaign Continues

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro called for "peace forever" amidst a heightened US military campaign in the Caribbean and Pacific, targeting alleged drug traffickers in the region. The US has deployed stealth warplanes and navy ships under the guise of anti-narcotics efforts, but has yet to release concrete evidence of its targets' involvement in smuggling. US President Donald Trump has authorized covert CIA action against Venezuela and has signaled an intent to strike against alleged drug cartels on land. The conflict has resulted in at least 37 reported deaths, according to an AFP tally based on US figures.

Key Takeaways:

  • US President Donald Trump has authorized covert CIA action against Venezuela, targeting alleged drug cartels on land.
  • The US military campaign in the Caribbean and Pacific has resulted in at least 37 reported deaths, according to an AFP tally based on US figures.
  • Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has called for "peace forever" amidst the escalating tensions, denying US accusations of heading a drug cartel.
  • The US has deployed stealth warplanes and navy ships as part of its anti-narcotics efforts, but has yet to release evidence of its targets' involvement in smuggling.
  • The conflict has flared regional tensions, with Maduro accusing Washington of seeking regime change.
  • The government of Trinidad and Tobago has announced that a US warship will dock in its capital from October 26-30, with a unit of US Marines set to conduct joint exercises with its defense forces.
  • Venezuelan Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino has claimed that the CIA is present in Venezuela and any US attempt to deploy covert operations will fail.
  • Experts have questioned the legality of using lethal force in foreign or international waters against suspects who have not been intercepted or questioned.

Statistics:

  • 37 reported deaths, according to an AFP tally based on US figures (Source: AFP)
  • The US deployement of stealth warplanes and navy ships in the Caribbean and Pacific as part of its anti-narcotics efforts (Source: AFP)
  • At least 8 boats and a semi-submersible targeted by the US military campaign (Source: AFP)
  • October 26-30: US warship to dock in the capital of Trinidad and Tobago (Source: Trinidad and Tobago Foreign Ministry)
  • Date of US military campaign: September 2 (Source: AFP)

Sources:

  • AFP (Various), "US-Venezuela tensions: weighing the risks of military action"
  • US News (Various), "US steps up military pressure on Venezuela"
  • Saudi Research and Publishing Co. (Various), "US Deploying Navy Ship to Caribbean Amid Venezuelan Tensions"

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