Amid a growing U.S.-Venezuela conflict, President Donald Trump sends mixed signals — downplaying war talk while hinting at possible action to end Maduro’s rule as Caribbean tensions mount.
In a statement that has reignited speculation over Washington’s intentions in Latin America, U.S. President Donald Trump declared that Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro’s “days are numbered,” even as he dismissed talk of a full-scale war.
Mixed Signals from Washington
Speaking in a CBS interview released Sunday, Trump was asked whether the United States was preparing for war with Venezuela.
“I doubt it. I don’t think so,” he said — but quickly followed with a warning that Maduro’s time in power may soon come to an end.
“I would say yeah. I think so,” Trump remarked when pressed about whether the Venezuelan leader’s days were numbered.
The exchange came as the U.S. military continues a build-up in the Caribbean, carrying out multiple strikes on what it claims are drug-trafficking vessels. However, United Nations officials and legal scholars have condemned these operations as clear violations of international law.
Speculation Over Possible Strikes
Several U.S. media outlets have reported that Washington is reviewing military strike plans on Venezuelan installations under its ongoing campaign against so-called “narco-terrorism.”
When asked if such strikes were imminent, Trump stopped short of denying the reports outright.
“I wouldn’t be inclined to say that I would do that,” he said. “I’m not going to tell you what I’m going to do with Venezuela.”
The ambiguity has fueled concerns in Caracas and across the region that the U.S. may be preparing to escalate its confrontation with Maduro’s government under the guise of counter-narcotics operations.
Human Rights Concerns
Maduro, who faces U.S. drug trafficking indictments, accused Washington of using the “war on drugs” as a pretext for regime change and control over Venezuela’s oil reserves.
According to regional reports, the U.S. military has carried out more than a dozen strikes across the Caribbean and Pacific, resulting in at least 65 deaths. Critics, including UN human rights chief Volker Türk, have condemned the operations as “extrajudicial killings,” arguing that Washington has provided no evidence that the vessels targeted were smuggling narcotics or posed a national threat.
A Region on Edge
The latest developments add to a climate of growing unease in Latin America, where governments are calling for restraint and transparency from Washington. As Trump’s rhetoric hardens and military activity intensifies, analysts warn that the U.S.-Venezuela conflict could enter a volatile new phase — with uncertain global consequences.
What’s your take on Washington’s next move? Follow for ongoing updates, share this story with others, and join the discussion on what’s at stake for Venezuela’s future.