President Donald Trump announced a significant shift in his administration's strategy against organized crime, focusing on land routes for drug trafficking centered in Venezuela. After successfully intercepting drugs transported by sea, the next phase will target the land corridors used by drug cartels.
In a statement from the White House, Trump highlighted the recent successes of naval operations: “We have absolutely no drugs coming into our country by water. It's time to turn our attention to the cartels,” he asserted.
Trump emphasized the progress made, stating, “We had a lot of drugs coming in by water, and now there are no boats. No fishing boats, no nothing. We've hit several ships, and since then, no drugs are entering through maritime routes because it was deadly. Now, we're focusing on the cartels. We're going to take a very serious look at the cartels coming by land.”
On Tuesday, Trump also attended a meeting with generals and admirals at Quantico, Virginia, to discuss potential future operations. Pentagon sources have indicated that options include using armed drones to target criminal leaders and drug labs within Venezuela, although Trump has not yet given final approval.
Caribbean Escalation
This strategic pivot to land operations follows weeks of activity in the Caribbean. The United States has deployed over 15 warships, nuclear submarines, F-35 fighters in Puerto Rico, and around 7,000 personnel—the largest mobilization of its kind since the 1980s.
In this context, the Southern Command has reportedly sunk at least three vessels originating from Venezuela, describing these actions as significant blows to drug trafficking. One incident resulted in 11 deaths, attributed by Washington to the Tren de Aragua, designated as a terrorist organization.
Administration officials argue that Nicolás Maduro “has not done enough” to curb drug flow, while Secretary of State Marco Rubio has openly supported the prospect of regime change as a sought-after outcome.
Maduro's Response: State of Emergency Declaration
Caracas promptly reacted, with Maduro announcing the activation of an “external commotion state” decree, a constitutional measure granting extraordinary powers in case of external threats.
Vice President Delcy Rodríguez explained that the decree allows for the mobilization of the armed forces, control over strategic services like the oil industry, and restriction of certain rights in the event of U.S. “aggression.”
Civil organizations, such as Acceso a la Justicia, warn that this measure could lead to increased restrictions and authoritarian consolidation.
Cuba's Stance Amid Tensions
Amidst these tensions, the Cuban regime expressed support for Maduro but ruled out going to war with its “historic enemy” to support its main ally of two decades.
Deputy Foreign Minister Carlos Fernández de Cossío affirmed at the UN that Havana would provide “full political support” to Caracas but made it clear there would be no military involvement. “Cuba will not go to war with the United States,” he stated.
This position highlights the limits of the Havana-Caracas alliance at a critical juncture: while Maduro seeks to project regional resistance, his main allies appear to favor diplomatic support over direct confrontation.
A Region on Edge
The potential for the United States to extend its offensive into Venezuelan territory raises international concern. Experts warn that a drone attack within the country could bolster the Chavista narrative of “sovereign defense” and intensify internal repression.
Nevertheless, Trump insists his administration will use “all elements of American power” to combat what he calls the “deadly poison” reaching American streets.
With the focus now on land routes, the anti-drug campaign threatens to open an unprecedented scenario: direct military operations within Venezuelan territory.
Frequently Asked Questions on U.S. Anti-Drug Strategy
What is the new focus of Trump's anti-drug campaign?
The new focus is on targeting land routes used by drug cartels, particularly those centered in Venezuela, after successfully intercepting drugs transported by sea.
How has the U.S. increased its military presence in the Caribbean?
The U.S. has deployed over 15 warships, nuclear submarines, F-35 fighters in Puerto Rico, and approximately 7,000 military personnel in the region.
How has Nicolás Maduro responded to the U.S. military actions?
Maduro has announced a decree of "external commotion," granting him extraordinary powers to mobilize the armed forces and control strategic services in response to potential U.S. aggression.