- Trump confirms he authorized CIA covert operations in Venezuela
- U.S. forces have killed 27 in recent anti-narcotics strikes in the Caribbean
- Maduro denounces CIA involvement, warns of “regime change” attempts
U.S. President Donald Trump has confirmed reports that he authorized the CIA to conduct covert operations in Venezuela, sparking strong condemnation from President Nicolás Maduro of Venezuela.
The revelation follows a series of U.S. military strikes in the Caribbean in recent weeks, targeting suspected drug-trafficking vessels. These operations have resulted in 27 deaths, with UN-appointed human rights experts describing them as potential extrajudicial executions.
Speaking at the White House, President Trump said the U.S. is “looking at land” options for further anti-drug operations in the region.
Maduro Calls for Peace Amid Rising Tensions
Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, whose leadership remains contested internationally after disputed elections, responded with a televised appeal for peace, addressing the American public directly:
“No war, yes peace,” he said.
He also ordered military exercises in Caracas and Miranda State, mobilizing troops, police, and civilian militia to “defend the nation” amid fears of a possible U.S. incursion.
Maduro condemned the use of the CIA and called the actions part of a broader strategy of aggression and regime change, saying:
“No to CIA-orchestrated coups d’état. No to regime change that reminds us of the endless wars in Afghanistan, Iraq, and Libya.”
U.S. Military Presence and Intelligence Operations
Roughly 10,000 U.S. troops are now believed to be deployed in the Caribbean region, stationed on naval vessels and in Puerto Rico. The U.S. has also deployed eight warships, a nuclear submarine, and fighter jets, officially to combat drug smuggling.
In an unusual public admission regarding covert intelligence activity, Trump confirmed to reporters in the Oval Office that he had signed off on the CIA’s involvement in Venezuela.
“I authorized for two reasons,” he said. “Number one, they [Venezuela] emptied their prisons into the U.S. And number two, the drugs. A lot of Venezuelan drugs come through the sea, but we’ll be stopping them by land too.”
He refused to answer whether the CIA’s objective includes removing Maduro from power, calling the question “ridiculous.”
According to the New York Times, Trump’s authorization allows the CIA to conduct operations independently or as part of a broader U.S. military strategy. However, it remains unclear whether any operations are currently active or being held as contingencies.
Recent Strike and Human Rights Concerns
The most recent U.S. strike took place Tuesday, killing six people aboard a vessel near Venezuela’s coast. On Truth Social, Trump said the boat was “confirmed to be trafficking narcotics” and linked to narcoterrorist networks, although no drug cartel names or identities were disclosed.
Critics, including UN human rights experts, have questioned the legality and transparency of these operations, warning of potential violations of international law.
Venezuelan Officials Condemn CIA Involvement
Foreign Minister Yván Gil strongly criticized the U.S. action on Telegram, stating:
“Venezuela rejects the warmongering and extravagant statements of the U.S. president. The use of the CIA and military deployments in the Caribbean represents a clear policy of aggression and intimidation.”
The U.S. government has previously accused Maduro and other senior Venezuelan officials of being involved in a criminal network known as the Cartel of the Suns — an allegation Maduro denies.
Covert Action and Legal Framework
Former CIA paramilitary officer Mick Mulroy told the BBC that such operations require a formal presidential finding, legally authorizing specific actions by the agency.
“This would represent a substantial increase in U.S. operations against drug trafficking groups,” said Mulroy, comparing the situation to the covert missions portrayed in the film Sicario.
