Since September 2025, the US under President Donald Trump has been conducting military strikes on vessels alleged to be involved in drug trafficking from Venezuela in the Caribbean and Eastern Pacific.

The Trump administration has framed the operations as part of a counter-narcotics campaign. It alleges that some drug vessels are operated by cartel-linked groups with ties to Venezuela’s regime.

‘Maduro connected to drug cartels’

Trump has accused Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro of being deeply connected to these cartels, most notably, the Cartel de los Soles, which Washington DC has officially designated a ‘Foreign Terrorist Organization’.

On top of that, Trump confirmed in October that he authorised the CIA to conduct covert operations inside Venezuela.

The pressure campaign could be more than just targeting drug trafficking, it might be aimed at undermining Maduro’s regime, Axios reported.

What is Trump doing now?

Trump has said he will not rule out deploying American troops on the ground in Venezuela, but he also added that he was leaving open the possibility of talking to Maduro.

“I don’t rule out anything,” the president told reporters in the Oval Office. “We just have to take care of Venezuela.”

How is Venezuela responding?

Maduro’s government strongly denies the US narrative, calling the strikes acts of aggression and accusing Washington of fabricating a war.

Venezuela has begun large-scale military exercises, mobilizing the army, militias, and its citizens to guard against a possible invasion, Euro News reported.

Venezuelan officials warn that US pressure could destabilise the country and possibly spark a wider conflict.

‘Unite with Venezuela for peace’

Maduro in a renewed appeal also urged the citizens of US to unite with Venezuela for peace of the Americas.

Maduro urged the US against entering another prolonged conflict, asking its people in Spanish: “No more endless wars. No more unjust wars. No more Libya. No more Afghanistan,” CNN reported.

Asked if he had a message for US President Donald Trump, Maduro replied in English: “Yes peace, yes peace.”