US Set to Launch New Phase of Venezuela Operations: What We Know So Far

The United States is preparing to launch a new phase of operations targeting Venezuela, according to several U.S. officials familiar with the plan. The move signals a major escalation in Washington’s strategy toward the Nicolás Maduro government, combining covert actions, counter-narcotics pressure, and a growing military presence in the Caribbean.

New Phase of U.S. Operations

Four U.S. officials revealed that the operation will begin in the coming days, although the exact timeline and scale remain unclear. Two of the officials confirmed that the new phase will start with covert operations, marking a shift from primarily public sanctions and diplomatic pressure.

Large U.S. Military Build-Up Already Underway

This shift comes as the U.S. has significantly increased its military presence near Venezuela.
Recent deployments include:

• USS Gerald R. Ford, America’s largest aircraft carrier
  
• Additional warships
  
• A nuclear submarine
  
• F-35 fighter jets
  

These assets are positioned in the Caribbean as part of Washington’s counter-drug and security strategy.

Focus on the ‘Cártel de los Soles’

A key development expected alongside the new operation is the U.S. plan to designate the Cartel de los Soles, a group Washington alleges is tied to Venezuela’s top leadership as a Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO).
This designation would give the U.S. broader legal authority to:

• Freeze assets
  
• Target networks globally
  
• Intensify law enforcement and military responses
  

Possible Regime-Change Calculations

Some officials indicate that U.S. strategic options under discussion include attempts to undermine or remove the Maduro government, though no final decision has been disclosed. The covert phase is expected to test Venezuela’s response before any broader action is taken.

Venezuela Mobilizes Its Military

Venezuela has reacted strongly to the U.S. military buildup and intelligence signals.
Reports indicate that Caracas has:

• Placed its armed forces on high alert
  
• Mobilized air, land, naval, riverine, missile units, and civilian militias
  
• Prepared for what it describes as possible U.S. aggression
  

This shows the Venezuelan government is treating the situation seriously and preparing for prolonged tension.

Why This Matters

The upcoming U.S. phase could reshape regional geopolitics. Key implications include:

1. Risk of Escalation

Any miscalculation could trigger open military confrontation.

2. Humanitarian Impact

Tensions could worsen Venezuela’s ongoing economic and social crisis.

3. International Reactions

Allies of Venezuela, including Russia, China, and regional partners, may respond diplomatically or strategically.

4. Intensification of the U.S. Drug War

Framing the campaign as counter-narcotics may allow Washington to justify expanded actions.

Conclusion

The U.S. launching a new phase of operations against Venezuela marks the most significant escalation in years. With covert actions expected soon and military assets in position, the coming weeks will be critical in determining whether the situation moves toward confrontation, negotiation, or regional instability. Staying informed is essential as this story rapidly develops.