Trump Announces US Ground Strike in Ongoing Venezuela Military Campaign
Trump announced what he described as the first US ground strike in a four-month military pressure campaign against Venezuela, though details remain thin. CNN and the New York Times reported that the CIA used a drone to target a port facility allegedly used by the Tren de Aragua gang. No casualties were reported, and the exact date, time, and location of the strike remain unknown.
Since August, the campaign has included a large US naval deployment, airstrikes that have killed 107 people, a blockade of sanctioned oil tankers, and the seizure of two vessels with a third being pursued. Maduro's government has remained silent regarding these developments.
Analysts view the action as signaling a new phase in a shadow war intended to pressure Maduro to leave power. US officials have avoided calling it a war to sidestep congressional oversight, while experts describe the campaign as a war of moves and psychological operations rather than full-scale fighting.
Experts say Trump's strategy hinges on defections within Maduro's inner circle and the formation of a new government, but this has yet to materialize. Venezuelan experts suggest that the alleged land strike, if it did occur, would have minimal impact on drug trafficking and may have targeted a small location, as Tren de Aragua is currently weakened and fragmented.
