The US Navy could potentially target key cartel sites in Venezuela if President Donald Trump decides to launch an attack, according to a retired colonel interviewed by The Mirror. The recent presence of the USS Gerald R. Ford, the world’s largest aircraft carrier, suggests a possible escalation in Trump’s efforts to combat suspected drug trafficking activities off the Venezuelan coast, which have led to numerous deaths since August. Trump has vowed to crack down on the drug trade that has claimed tens of thousands of lives annually in the US due to substances like fentanyl.
As the naval forces assembled in the Caribbean, Trump made statements indicating a readiness to confront Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro, suggesting intentions to dismantle the regime over allegations of harboring cartels involved in smuggling opioids into the US. Mark Cancian, a retired US Marine Corps Colonel and senior advisor, mentioned the possibility of direct strikes against both the cartels and Maduro himself, highlighting potential targets such as production facilities, airfields, warehouses, and leadership headquarters.
Trump’s administration, like previous administrations in Washington DC, has been critical of Maduro’s dictatorship, linking it to the empowerment of cartels and increased drug trafficking activities targeting the US. These concerns have influenced the decision to deploy multiple warships and submarines to the Caribbean region. Despite having a significant naval presence, the US lacks the necessary ground forces to launch an immediate ground offensive against Venezuela.
While the objective of any potential strikes would be to remove Maduro from power, there are concerns that cartels could exploit the situation, potentially necessitating support for a new government. The US would consider providing military aid and training to assist in stabilizing the region, although direct American troop involvement on the ground is unlikely. Trump may argue that supporting a new administration aligns with efforts to combat drug trafficking and safeguard American citizens.
In the event of regime change, the US could offer military aid and peacekeeping assistance to prevent further conflict in Venezuela. Cancian suggested that any military support to Venezuela would be less extensive than aid provided to other countries like Ukraine, with a lower level of conflict anticipated in the South American nation.
Trump may justify backing a new Venezuelan administration as a strategic move to combat drug trafficking and ensure the safety of US citizens, despite potential opposition from segments of the American population advocating for reduced involvement in foreign conflicts.