Background to the Crisis

Venezuela and the united states have witnessed heightened tensions amid allegations of drug trafficking and long-standing disputes over oil interests.

On december 2, venezuela signaled readiness to negotiate with Washington on a joint framework to combat drug trafficking.

Despite this offer, Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro remained wary, believing the US administration aimed to overthrow his government following the expulsion of American oil companies.

US Military Action

In the early hours of january 3, the united states air Force carried out airstrikes across Venezuela.

Targets included the capital Caracas, as well as the states of Miranda, Aragua, and La Guaira.

Following the strikes, Venezuelan authorities declared a national emergency, citing widespread damage and heightened security risks.

Reports indicated that venezuela was effectively surrounded, with US military presence intensifying across air and maritime routes.

Trump’s Claims and Allegations

US President donald trump claimed that Nicolás Maduro and his wife had been taken into US custody, a statement that Caracas strongly disputed.

Trump justified the strikes by accusing venezuela of smuggling large quantities of drugs into the United States.

He repeatedly labeled Maduro a “drug trafficker” and said US forces were acting to protect American interests and security.

Viral Video and oil Angle

Amid the airstrikes, an old video of trump from december 18 resurdata-faced and went viral.

In the clip, Trump is heard saying venezuela had “taken away our oil rights,” adding that American companies were expelled and the US “wanted them back.”

The video reinforced perceptions that Venezuela’s vast oil reserves were a central factor behind Washington’s aggressive posture.

Escalation Fears

Trump had earlier warned of possible ground operations, signaling that airstrikes might not be the final step.

Analysts believe the combination of military pressure, economic interests, and political rhetoric has pushed US–Venezuela relations into one of their most volatile phases in years.

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