Rising Tensions Between the U.S. and Venezuela
October 23, 2025
President Trump stated that the U.S. has the legal right to strike vessels near Venezuela's shores that are allegedly carrying drugs. He emphasized that the government is prepared to also target ground positions if necessary, which may require notifying Congress. In response, President Maduro asserted that Venezuela possesses 5,000 anti-aircraft missiles to defend against U.S. threats. The legality of such strikes is disputed, and critics accuse the Trump administration of extrajudicial actions. The tension between the U.S. and Venezuela remains high.