President Trump stated that operations to stop drug trafficking from Venezuela will begin "very soon," intensifying tensions with Caracas.

American President Donald Trump announced that he will soon begin operations to stop drug trafficking from Venezuela "by land", as part of an anti-drug campaign called "Southern Spear". These comments were made during a video conference with deployed American troops participating in this operation. Trump stated that maritime trafficking has been reduced by about 85%, but that land operations will begin soon.

These statements come against the backdrop of rising tensions with Venezuela, with President Maduro accusing the U.S. of regime change intentions. Additionally, Washington has designated a Venezuelan drug cartel as a foreign terrorist organization, and military activities in the area have intensified, including flights of B-52 and B-1B bombers.

Following security warnings issued by the FAA, six airlines suspended flights to Venezuela, affecting over 8,000 passengers. Venezuelan authorities reacted by banning these companies from operating, accusing them of complicity in the "state terrorism" promoted by the U.S. This situation has led to an escalation of tensions and military exercises from Venezuela, while Trump has left the possibility of dialogue with Maduro open.