Trump to convene key national security team members to discuss Venezuela — CNN
Photo: Donald Trump, US President (Getty Images)
US President Donald Trump will discuss the next steps on Venezuela today, December 1, with key ministers and members of the national security team, CNN reports.
According to the outlet, the meeting will include, among others, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Dan Caine, and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, as well as White House Chief of Staff Suzie Wiles and her deputy Stephen Miller.
CNN reports that the meeting is scheduled for 5:00 PM local time and will take place in the Oval Office. These discussions come amid increased US pressure on Venezuela — including strikes on vessels potentially carrying drugs and the buildup of American military presence in the Caribbean region.
Last week, Trump stated that the US would "very soon" begin targeting Venezuela’s overland drug trafficking routes in addition to maritime routes.
Over the weekend, Trump urged airlines and pilots to avoid Venezuelan airspace. However, on Sunday, November 30, he told reporters that this announcement should not be given any special significance.
Maduro may resign
A month ago, media outlets reported rumors that the US was planning a ground operation in Venezuela to overthrow Nicolás Maduro’s regime.
Trump himself assured that no strikes on Venezuela or ground operations were intended.
Yesterday, November 30, CNN, citing sources, reported that Maduro is allegedly ready to resign. However, this may not happen immediately and could take up to 18 months.
The outlet noted that this scenario does not satisfy the White House — Washington wants the dictator to step down immediately.
