The New York Times: Trump Allowed the CIA to Conduct Covert Operations to Remove Maduro

The Trump Administration Authorized the CIA to Conduct Covert Operations in Venezuela

The administration of U.S. President Donald Trump has granted the Central Intelligence Agency new powers to conduct covert operations in Venezuela to remove the country’s president, Nicolás Maduro, from power. This was reported by The New York Times, citing American officials.

According to the publication, the new powers allow the CIA to carry out lethal operations in Venezuela and conduct various special operations in the Caribbean region. The CIA can operate independently or as part of broader military operations. It is currently unclear whether the agency plans to implement these measures soon, or if this is a backup option, notes NYT.

Earlier, in August, the United States increased the reward for information leading to the arrest of Maduro from $25 million to $50 million. This move is part of the broader U.S. strategy to pressure the Maduro regime. Axios noted that under the guise of combating drug trafficking, the U.S. might attempt to remove the Maduro regime.

The New York Times quotes senior officials who believe that U.S. pressure is part of a multi-layered strategy that includes economic sanctions and diplomatic efforts. Analysts note that such actions could lead to a significant escalation of tensions in the region.