During a Thanksgiving video call with deployed U.S. troops, President Donald Trump announced that the United States would begin land-based actions against Venezuelan drug trafficking networks as part of its broader anti-drug campaign known as Southern Spear. The plan marks an expansion from existing sea-based interdiction efforts and comes amid rising tensions with the Maduro government. Trump, who also spoke to leaders in the White House, described the actions as part of a sustained campaign to disrupt trafficking networks operating through Venezuela and across the Caribbean region. He said land-based actions would begin very soon, but did not provide a specific start date or invasion details.
The announcement identified a wide range of U.S. forces involved, including troops deployed for Thanksgiving and other elements of the U.S. military, under the broader coordination of the White House. Maduro’s government has condemned the move, framing it as a plot against his regime and responding with military posturing and public rallies. The clash over the campaign has intensified regional pressure, with Caracas accusing Washington of attempting to topple Maduro and of destabilizing the region.
Travel disruption followed the announcement, as the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration issued warnings about heightened military activity in the area. Several airlines suspended flights to Venezuela, and Caracas subsequently restricted some carriers in retaliation. The development has been covered by major outlets, including CNN and France 24, which reported Trump’s remarks during the Thanksgiving video call and noted the broader context of U.S. pressure in the region.
Disclosure: We may earn a commission when you make a purchase through the ads.