CIA Covert Operations in Venezuela Authorized by Trump Administration

The Trump administration has secretly granted the CIA new authority for covert action in Venezuela. This authorization marks a significant escalation in US efforts to challenge the government of President Nicolás Maduro. The information was confirmed by US officials to The New York Times.

This move signals a more aggressive approach beyond recent military interdictions. The goal is to intensify pressure on the Maduro regime.

Scope and Goals of the Covert Action

The newly granted authority allows the CIA to conduct lethal operations within Venezuela. It also permits a wider range of activities across the Caribbean region. According to The New York Times, the ultimate objective is to drive Maduro from power.

The spy agency can now act unilaterally or support larger military missions. It remains unclear if specific operations are currently being planned. Officials suggest this may be a contingency measure for future scenarios.

Military Buildup and Regional Tensions

This covert authorization coincides with potential military escalation plans. The US military is reportedly preparing options for strikes inside Venezuela for Trump’s consideration. A substantial force is already positioned in the region.

There are currently 10,000 US troops, mostly in Puerto Rico. The naval presence includes eight surface warships and a submarine. Marines are also deployed on amphibious assault ships nearby.

In response, Maduro has ordered military exercises in major shantytowns and other areas. He accuses Washington of plotting a regime change. State television showed armored vehicles deploying in the Caracas suburb of Petare.

The authorization of CIA covert operations represents a major policy shift. This development significantly raises the stakes in the US campaign against the Maduro government. The situation in Venezuela remains highly volatile.

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Q1: What is the main goal of the CIA authorization?

The primary goal is to pressure and ultimately remove Nicolás Maduro from power. The covert actions are part of a broader US strategy against his government. This represents a significant escalation in US policy.

Q2: What kind of actions can the CIA now take?

The agency is authorized to carry out lethal operations specifically within Venezuela. Its mandate also includes a wide range of covert activities across the Caribbean. This provides new operational flexibility.

Q3: How has Maduro responded to these developments?

Maduro has ordered new military exercises in key areas, including large shantytowns. He has publicly accused the US of plotting to overthrow his government. The exercises are framed as a move to “win the peace.”

Q4: What is the current US military presence in the region?

There are approximately 10,000 US troops stationed in the area, with most in Puerto Rico. The naval presence is also significant, with eight warships and a submarine deployed. This supports the potential for further military options.

Q5: Why does the US government target Maduro?

The Trump administration accuses Maduro of running a “narco-terrorism” enterprise. The US Justice Department has doubled its bounty for information leading to his capture. These charges are strongly denied by the Venezuelan government.

Trusted Sources

The New York Times, Associated Press