Trump Confirms Covert CIA Ops in Venezuela, Land Strikes Considered

UPDATE: In a shocking revelation, US President Donald Trump has confirmed that he has authorized covert CIA operations in Venezuela and is now considering land strikes targeting Venezuelan drug cartels. This announcement comes in the wake of a series of deadly maritime operations against alleged drug-trafficking vessels.

During a press briefing at the White House on July 15, 2025, Trump stated, “We are certainly looking at land now, because we’ve got the sea very well under control.” His remarks followed an explosive report from the New York Times detailing the CIA’s secret involvement in Venezuela, aimed at undermining the regime of President Nicolas Maduro.

The urgency of Trump’s comments highlights the escalating tensions surrounding Venezuela’s ongoing drug crisis. “Number one, they [Venezuela] have emptied their prisons into the United States of America,” Trump explained, emphasizing the dire implications for US border security. “And the other thing are drugs,” he added, referencing the significant influx of narcotics from Venezuela, particularly via maritime routes.

In a stark admission, Trump acknowledged the CIA’s role, stating, “I authorized for two reasons really.” The President’s remarks mark a rare instance of a commander-in-chief openly discussing covert operations, usually reserved for secrecy.

When pressed about whether he had given the CIA the green light to “take out” Maduro, Trump deflected, stating, “That’s a ridiculous question for me to be given.” His comments come as the death toll from recent strikes has surged, with at least 27 people reported dead, including six individuals described as “narcoterrorists” in a recent operation.

Critics and legal experts are raising alarms about the legality of employing lethal force against suspects in international waters without prior interception or questioning. The situation is further complicated by statements from Colombia’s President Gustavo Petro, who expressed concern that some casualties were Colombian nationals.

As the conflict intensifies, the international community is watching closely. Trump’s announcement signals a potential escalation in US military engagement in Latin America, raising questions about the implications for regional stability and US foreign policy.

What’s Next: Analysts warn that the situation could escalate quickly. Observers are advised to monitor further developments in US military strategy and any potential reactions from Maduro’s administration, as well as the broader geopolitical consequences of these operations in Venezuela.

This breaking news highlights a volatile moment in US-Venezuela relations, as Trump’s administration navigates complex issues of drug trafficking and national security. As this story develops, more updates are expected from official sources.