Donald Trump has officially confirmed that he has authorized the CIA to conduct covert operations in Venezuela against the government of Nicolas Maduro, calling it a response to drug trafficking.
Trump authorizes CIA to conduct covert operations in Venezuela
US President Donald Trump confirmed on Wednesday that he has authorized the CIA to conduct covert operations in Venezuela, The New York Times reported, citing White House sources.
The decision marks a sharp escalation of American pressure on the government of Nicolas Maduro, which Washington accuses of supporting drug trafficking and human rights abuses.
“We took control of the sea — now we’re looking at land”
Trump said he ordered the operations to begin because of “large amounts of drugs” allegedly entering the United States from Venezuelan territory:
“We control the sea very well, now we’re looking at land,” the president said.
When asked by reporters why he was not using the Coast Guard, as he had done before, Trump replied that such actions were “politically correct, but ineffective.”
The question of removing Maduro — no answer
The president evaded a direct answer to the question of whether the CIA has the authority to eliminate Maduro.
“I think Venezuela is feeling the pressure,” Trump only noted.
He also accused Caracas of allegedly releasing prisoners and psychiatric patients to the United States, without specifying which border this is happening through.
Caracas’ reaction
At the time of publication, the Maduro government and representatives of the opposition of Maria Corina Machado had not commented on Trump’s statements.
Local media reported that security at government facilities and government institutions had been increased in Venezuela.
Context
Relations between the United States and Venezuela have remained tense since 2019, when Washington recognized Juan Guaidó as the country’s interim president.
Although Washington has since gradually eased sanctions, Trump’s new initiative could return the situation to a “cold confrontation” between the two countries.
Related: US Senate blocks attempt to limit Trump’s military strikes on ships near Venezuela
