U.S. President Donald Trump is currently considering several options for a military operation against Venezuela.
CBS News reports that senior U.S. military officials recently presented updated plans, which include ground strikes.
However, no final decision has been made yet, according to sources.
At the same time, a Pentagon spokesperson declined to comment on the situation when asked by reporters.
CBS News reminds that over the past two months, U.S. military forces have struck at least 21 vessels, which, according to them, were transporting drugs from South America to the U.S.
As a result of these strikes, at least 80 suspected smugglers were killed. Two survivors were repatriated to their countries – Ecuador and Colombia.
On November 14, U.S. Secretary of Defense Mark Esper officially announced the start of the military operation ‘Southern List,’ aimed at combating drug cartels in Latin America under Trump’s orders.
The primary objective is to neutralize drug-terrorist groups operating in the Western Hemisphere and to shut down drug supply routes to the U.S.
The operation is coordinated by the United Operational Group Southern Spear in cooperation with U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM).
Recently, amid rising tensions in relations with Venezuela, an American San Antonio-class amphibious dock ship arrived in Puerto Rico. U.S. military forces have also deployed CCA Combatant Craft Assault assault boats.
Meanwhile, Venezuela is preparing for guerrilla resistance in the event of a potential U.S. military invasion. The country has announced the beginning of a large-scale mobilization of troops, equipment, and reserves in response to the increased presence of U.S. forces in the Caribbean.
