Why Has Trump Attacked Venezuela and Taken Maduro?
US President Donald Trump has declared the United States will “run” Venezuela “until such time as we can do a safe, proper and judicious transition.” This statement follows the US forces capturing Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro after targeted strikes on the country. Maduro, along with his wife, was removed from Venezuela and is now facing drug charges in New York.
These military actions come after a sustained pressure campaign against Maduro’s government, with the Trump administration accusing it of flooding the US with drugs and gang members. Here’s a closer look at what led to these developments.
What Motivated Trump’s Focus on Venezuela?
– Migration Crisis: Trump attributes the influx of hundreds of thousands of Venezuelan migrants to the US to Nicolás Maduro. Since 2013, nearly eight million Venezuelans are estimated to have fled the country’s economic turmoil and repression.
– Drug Trafficking: Trump has zeroed in on combating the flow of drugs, particularly fentanyl and cocaine, into the US. He has designated two Venezuelan criminal groups, Tren de Aragua and Cartel de los Soles, as Foreign Terrorist Organizations (FTOs), claiming the latter is led by Maduro himself.
– Allegations Against Maduro: Although Trump has not substantiated his claims, he accused Maduro of “emptying his prisons” to facilitate migration and drug flows to the US.
The Rise in US Military Operations in Venezuela
Pressure on the Maduro government has intensified since Trump began his second term in January:
– Increased Rewards: The Trump administration doubled the reward for information leading to Maduro’s capture.
– Targeted Strikes: In September, US forces began targeting vessels accused of transporting drugs from South America. Over 30 strikes in the Caribbean and Pacific have reportedly resulted in more than 110 deaths.
– Legal Implications: Many legal experts argue these strikes may not comply with international laws regarding military engagements.
Covert Operations and Naval Blockades
– CIA Involvement: Trump authorized the CIA to conduct covert operations in Venezuela and threatened land strikes against “narco-terrorists.”
– Naval Blockade: A “total naval blockade” was declared on all sanctioned oil tankers entering and leaving Venezuela, increasing economic pressure on Maduro’s regime.
– Military Presence: The US has deployed 15,000 troops, aircraft carriers, and amphibious assault ships to the Caribbean to prevent drug smuggling, asserting a commitment to protect American lives from drug-related threats.
Understanding Venezuela’s Drug Trafficking Role
– Transit Country: Contrary to accusations, experts say Venezuela is a minor player in global drug trafficking, primarily serving as a transit zone. Colombia, its neighbor, is the world’s largest cocaine producer.
– Drug Routes: A 2020 DEA report indicated that almost three-quarters of cocaine entering the US comes from routes other than Venezuela.
– Fentanyl Production: Most fentanyl is produced in Mexico, and Venezuela is not identified as a source in the DEA’s 2025 National Drug Threat Assessment.
Maduro’s Political Background
Nicolás Maduro rose to prominence under Hugo Chávez and has led Venezuela since 2013. His government has controlled key state institutions, leading to allegations of electoral manipulation:
– Controversial Elections: Maduro was declared the winner of the 2024 elections despite opposition claims of widespread voting irregularities.
– Opposition Figures: Maria Corina Machado, a prominent opposition leader, received the Nobel Peace Prize for her efforts to challenge the regime, reinforcing claims of dictatorship.
US Military Strategy in the Caribbean
– Operational Forces: The US has mobilized significant military resources, including the USS Gerald Ford, which has played a vital role in seizing oil tankers.
– Targeted Operations: Recent military actions highlight the US intent to cut off Maduro’s access to resources by targeting sanctioned oil shipments.
Venezuela’s Oil and Its Strategic Importance
– Oil Reserves: Maduro has accused the US of trying to usurp Venezuela’s vast oil resources, having the world’s largest proven crude oil reserves. However, US officials deny that military actions are about securing these reserves.
– Current Production: Venezuela produced only 0.8% of global crude in 2023, largely due to sanctions and mismanagement, exporting approximately 900,000 barrels per day primarily to China.
In conclusion, Trump’s aggressive actions against Venezuela stem from a complex interplay of migration issues, drug trafficking concerns, and geopolitical strategy, highlighting the ongoing tensions between the US and Maduro’s government. The focus on Venezuela is likely to continue as the administration seeks to address its multifaceted problems.