Trump develops new strategy to push Maduro from office - Politico

Politico notes that during his second presidential term, Donald Trump has once again set his sights on Maduro - but with a different approach. He is now emphasizing long-standing allegations that the dictator is a drug trafficker and a dangerous criminal.

Sources familiar with the situation report that the US plan aims to compel Maduro to resign as part of Trump’s ongoing campaign against drug cartels.

These efforts include:

• Designating such groups as terrorist organizations;
• Striking vessels allegedly transporting drugs from Venezuela;
• Increasing the bounty on Maduro’s head to $50 million;
• Halting diplomatic negotiations with Caracas.

An official said that Trump has numerous plans, including airstrikes on drug trafficking sites within Venezuela, though he has not given a direct order to remove Maduro.

However, one source familiar with the discussions suggested that if Maduro is deemed a drug lord and terrorist, he could become a fully legitimate target.

“Don’t we go after indicted narco traffickers and terrorists all the time?” the source asked.

US officials also explained that continuing the campaign against Maduro without an official regime change announcement does not make Trump appear weak. At the same time, the US would bear less responsibility for the consequences in Venezuela.

A few weeks ago, Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro signed a decree granting himself additional powers to mobilize security forces in the event of a potential US military intervention.

Additionally, last week he appealed to Pope Leo XIV, requesting assistance in maintaining peace in the country amid escalating tensions with the US.