US Conducts Second Strike on Venezuelan Narco-Vehicles Amid Retaliation Threats

Tensions between the United States and Venezuela have escalated amid U.S. military actions targeting drug trafficking in the Caribbean, with President Donald Trump refusing to rule out further strikes on Venezuelan territory. Trump accused Venezuela of sending drugs and gang members into the U.S., calling the situation unacceptable, while the U.S. Navy has deployed warships near Venezuela's Exclusive Economic Zone and increased surveillance capabilities. Venezuela condemned a recent incident where U.S. personnel boarded a Venezuelan fishing boat in its waters, calling it illegal and provocative. Venezuelan President Irfaan Ali emphasized sovereignty and peace for the region despite concerns about transnational crime and drug trafficking, warning against the destruction caused by illicit activities. China criticized U.S. operations as threats to regional peace and violations of international law, urging multilateral cooperation instead. The Trump administration's labeling of Venezuelan cartels as terrorist groups broadens its legal authority for unilateral military actions, raising concerns about potential escalations in the conflict.