The United States will “very soon” start stopping suspected Venezuelan drug traffickers on land. President Donald Trump announced the shift on Thursday during a virtual Thanksgiving call with American troops.
He told them, “You probably noticed that people aren’t wanting to be delivering by sea, and we’ll be starting to stop them by land also. The land is easier, but that’s going to start very soon.”
Trump said the US is now preparing additional action. He added, “In recent weeks, you’ve been working to deter Venezuelan drug traffickers, of which there are many. Of course, there aren’t too many coming in by sea anymore… We warn them: Stop sending poison to our country.”
Washington hardens its stance on Venezuela
Trump’s remarks show he has chosen his next steps after several high-level briefings. The US also sent more military forces to the region earlier this month.
This week, Trump designated Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his close allies as members of a foreign terrorist organization called the “Cartel de los Soles.” Experts say the term mainly describes corrupt officials, not a structured cartel. The designation lets Washington impose new sanctions on Maduro’s assets and networks. However, legal experts say it does not allow the US to use lethal force on land.
US boosts sea operations under Operation Southern Spear
The US military has deployed over a dozen warships and about 15,000 troops under “Operation Southern Spear.” The campaign targets drug routes through the Caribbean and the Pacific.
Since September, US forces have struck at least 21 suspected drug boats. These strikes have killed at least 83 people, according to the Pentagon.
Venezuela’s communications ministry did not respond to requests for comment. Maduro has repeatedly denied any role in drug trafficking.
No authorization for land strikes inside Venezuela
Despite the military buildup, CNN reported that US officials told lawmakers the administration does not plan strikes inside Venezuela. Officials also said the US lacks a legal basis for land operations there.
Lawmakers were told that the Justice Department’s opinion—allowing strikes on suspected drug boats—does not apply to actions inside Venezuela or elsewhere on land.
One source said officials did not rule out future steps.
Administration bypasses Congress
Meanwhile, the White House continues its military campaign in Latin America without seeking approval from Congress.
A senior Justice Department official told lawmakers in November that the US military can keep carrying out lethal strikes on suspected traffickers without congressional authorization. The official argued that the administration is not bound by older war powers legislation.