Trump comments signal CIA mandate to topple Maduro: Exclusive
2 Min Read
Al Mayadeen’s correspondent says Trump’s ground operation hints at CIA authorization to topple Venezuela’s government amid rising US-Caracas tensions.
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Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro attends a military ceremony on his inauguration day for a third term in Caracas, Venezuela, on January 10, 2025. (AP)
Al Mayadeen’s correspondent in Venezuela reported that US President Donald Trump’s recent remarks about possible ground operations in Venezuela suggest that the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) has been granted a mandate to initiate actions aimed at overthrowing the government in Caracas.
The statements mark a sharp escalation in Washington’s rhetoric and posture toward Venezuela, raising fears of a coordinated regime change strategy under the pretext of combating drug trafficking.
Trump announced that the United States is preparing to launch a ground operation against drug cartels in Venezuela, signaling a major escalation in the administration's anti-narcotics campaign.
"The drugs coming in by sea are like 5% of what they were a year ago, less than 5% … The land is going to be next," Trump said during a press conference on transnational crime.
Venezuelan officials warn against foreign interference
The Venezuelan minister of labor warned that “if imperialism attacks us, it will find the working class ready to respond,” adding that the people of Venezuela remain united against foreign interference and committed to defending the country’s sovereignty.
Our correspondent noted that this represents an unprecedented level of escalation, with the United States increasing its verbal and strategic pressure not only on Venezuela but also on Colombia, signaling wider regional implications.
Washington debates legality of escalation in Caribbean
In a parallel report, Al Mayadeen’s correspondent in Washington stated that while Trump has publicly hinted at ground action, any such operation would require authorization from the US Congress.
Our correspondent added that the legality and strategic feasibility of escalating military activity in the Caribbean is under intense debate within American institutions, particularly after Trump denied reports of B-1 bombers flying near Venezuelan airspace.
The latest developments come amid growing tensions between Washington and Caracas, with both sides exchanging sharp statements and Venezuela warning of a full-scale response to any military aggression.
