The Trump administration considers targeting cocaine facilities in Venezuela while remaining open to diplomacy.

The Trump administration is considering plans to target cocaine facilities and drug trafficking routes within Venezuela, as reported by U.S. officials on Friday. Although a final decision has yet to be made, the administration remains open to exploring various strategies to curb the narcotics flow into the United States.

While military options are on the table, President Trump has also signaled a willingness to explore diplomatic avenues to halt drug smuggling into the country.

Potential Military Escalation

U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth has ordered the "Gerald Ford" aircraft carrier group, currently stationed in Europe, to move towards the Caribbean-a move that suggests potential military readiness. Additionally, Trump has authorized the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) to carry out covert operations within Venezuelan territory.

The plans under consideration involve targeting drug traffickers within Venezuela with an emphasis on anti-drug efforts rather than direct conflict, while maintaining an openness to diplomatic solutions.

Pressure on Maduro's Regime

Some administration officials suggest that these anti-narcotic measures might serve as leverage against those surrounding Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro. Maduro faces federal charges related to drugs and terrorism, which could incentivize regime change discussions among his inner circle.

U.S. Military Presence in the Region

The U.S.'s military actions in the Caribbean include deploying 4,500 naval personnel, destroyers with guided missiles, MQ-9 Reaper reconnaissance aircraft, and F-35 jets stationed in Puerto Rico. Additionally, Roosevelt Roads Naval Station on the island has been reactivated as a support base for operations.

Challenges

According to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), Venezuela is not a major cocaine producer-most crops originate from Colombia, Peru, and Bolivia. However, some drug shipments do traverse through Venezuelan soil, providing grounds for possible U.S. actions.

It is anticipated that any operations conducted in Venezuela would require congressional notification or approval before proceeding. Nonetheless, the White House asserts that President Trump does not intend to seek a formal declaration of war.