US Weighs Military Strikes Against Venezuelan Cartels Maduro

The Trump administration is escalating its approach against drug cartels in Venezuela, marked by a recent U.S. strike on a drug-carrying vessel and consideration of further military strikes, including potential operations inside Venezuelan territory. President Trump has justified the strike as a deterrent to drug smuggling, emphasizing the large quantities of narcotics aimed at the U.S., while denying intentions of regime change despite tensions surrounding Venezuela's contested election and President Nicolás Maduro's hold on power. Secretary of State Marco Rubio supports aggressive tactics, asserting that previous interdictions have failed and that destructive measures will continue. The deployment of F-35 stealth fighter jets to Puerto Rico signals a significant military escalation aimed at pressuring Maduro and the cartels, who have been designated as narco-terrorist organizations. Venezuela's Maduro has condemned the U.S. actions as violations of sovereignty and called for dialogue, warning of armed resistance if attacked. The situation has sparked concern among regional leaders and experts about sovereignty and the broader implications of the U.S. strategy in Latin America.