President Trump has signaled that U.S. land strikes against alleged drug-related targets in Venezuela could begin soon, raising concerns about further escalation between Washington and Caracas.

Trump’s rejected ultimatum for Maduro to leave Venezuela, combined with a declared closure of Venezuelan airspace and ongoing lethal counterdrug operations, signals a shift toward open coercive pressure that heightens the risk of targeted strikes and rapid escalation even as Washington insists it will not send ground troops.

Trump’s confirmation of CIA covert operations in Venezuela, combined with lethal maritime strikes and B-52 shows of force, signals a sharp escalation in a counter-drug campaign with significant legal, diplomatic, and escalation risks.