U.S. Weighs New Covert Actions Against Venezuela Amid Rising Tensions

The United States is preparing to enter a new phase of operations targeting Venezuela, according to several U.S. officials who spoke anonymously due to the sensitivity of the situation. While the exact timing and scale of the planned actions remain unclear, the Trump administration is reportedly escalating efforts to pressure President Nicolás Maduro, deepening an already tense standoff between Washington and Caracas.

Officials indicated that covert operations would likely serve as the opening step in any expanded campaign. The U.S. has increased its military presence in the Caribbean in recent months, signaling growing concern over what the administration describes as Maduro’s role in the flow of illegal drugs into the country—an accusation the Venezuelan leader denies.

The White House has not ruled out any options, and senior officials have emphasized that President Trump is prepared to use “every element of American power” to combat narcotics trafficking. Among the potential strategies under consideration is the possibility of attempting to remove Maduro from power, reinforcing longstanding claims by Caracas that Washington aims to topple the government. Maduro has vowed that both the Venezuelan military and civilians would resist any such effort.

Tensions escalated further after the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration issued a warning to airlines about hazardous conditions over Venezuelan airspace, prompting several carriers to cancel flights. Washington is also expected to designate the Cartel de los Soles—a group it alleges Maduro leads—as a foreign terrorist organization, potentially unlocking broader operational authorities.

The U.S. military buildup includes the arrival of the aircraft carrier Gerald R. Ford and its strike group, joining other naval forces conducting counter-narcotics missions that critics argue exceed legal bounds. Human rights groups and international allies have raised concerns about U.S. strikes on suspected drug vessels, which have resulted in dozens of deaths.

As Venezuelan forces struggle with shortages and deteriorating equipment, Maduro’s government has reportedly explored a “prolonged resistance” strategy, preparing for potential guerrilla-style defense in the event of a U.S. invasion.

This evolving geopolitical confrontation continues to heighten uncertainty across the region as both nations brace for possible escalation.