The administration under Donald Trump is putting pressure on Venezuela’s leadership amid growing concerns of a potential conflict between the two countries.
While the US often focuses on potential conflicts with China, Russia, or Middle Eastern nations, tensions are mounting closer to its shores. The Trump administration has been exerting pressure on Venezuela’s authoritarian president, Nicolás Maduro.
Recently, at least two B-52 bombers from Louisiana flew near Venezuela in international airspace, an action described by a senior US official as a “show of force.”
These bombers have the capability to carry numerous precision-guided bombs.
This action follows US threats against Venezuela’s leadership regarding accusations of drug trafficking into the United States.
The US has been targeting what they label as ‘narco-terrorist’ drug smugglers, resulting in approximately 27 fatalities in operations conducted in open water.
Donald Trump has defended these military actions, stating, “We attacked a submarine, and that was a drug-carrying submarine built specifically for the transportation of massive amounts of drugs.
“This was not an innocent group of people. I don’t know too many people who have submarines, and that was an attack on a drug-carrying, loaded submarine.”
Concerns are rising that the US may escalate the situation, as reports suggest Trump is considering deploying the secretive ‘night stalker’ regiment, which is part of the Army’s 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment.
This elite unit has previously provided precision air support for operational forces such as the Green Berets, Navy SEALs, and Delta Force.
A New York Times report reveals that a US official, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, indicated that members of the helicopter squadron have been conducting training missions in preparation for potential military action in Venezuela.
The Trump administration has confirmed the authorization of covert CIA operations in Venezuela and is also considering conducting strikes within the country.
In response, Maduro is preparing for potential conflict if tensions with the US do not de-escalate. Troops have reportedly been positioned along coastlines and the Colombia border in anticipation of possible escalation.
According to the Mail Online, Maduro recently addressed the situation in a speech, declaring, “Raise your hands if you want to be a slave to the gringos.
“If you want peace, get ready to earn peace. The people are ready for combat, ready for battle.”