Trump Downplays War Risk Amid US Military Actions Near Venezuela

US President Donald Trump has downplayed the likelihood of the United States going to war with Venezuela despite a significant US military buildup in the Caribbean and ongoing strikes on alleged drug-smuggling boats, which have resulted in at least 64 deaths. Trump emphasized that the military actions are aimed at combating drug trafficking and narcotics entering the US, rejecting claims that they are primarily intended to oust Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, although he suggested Maduro's political future may be limited. The strikes on vessels have faced criticism and questions regarding their legality and the lack of presented evidence that drugs were aboard the targeted boats. Trump also hinted at the possibility of future strikes on Venezuelan soil but did not confirm any plans, maintaining strategic ambiguity. The US military presence includes warships, fighter jets, bombers, marines, drones, and spy planes, representing the largest deployment in the region in decades, while tensions between Washington and Caracas remain high, with accusations of regime change efforts and broader geopolitical goals. Trump additionally linked the situation to concerns over immigration and criminal gangs, highlighting the complexity of the US approach toward Venezuela and regional security.