Overview and Background

On October 15, 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed that he authorized the CIA to conduct covert operations in Venezuela, intensifying U.S. efforts against President Nicolás Maduro's government. This decision follows a series of U.S. military strikes targeting alleged drug-smuggling vessels originating from Venezuela. The New York Times initially reported the classified directive, citing U.S. officials.

President Trump stated that the authorization was necessary due to significant drug trafficking from Venezuela, primarily via maritime routes. He emphasized the need to extend operations to land routes as well, claiming that previous maritime efforts had been insufficient. Trump also alleged that Venezuela had released numerous prisoners into the U.S., including individuals from mental health facilities, although he did not specify the borders involved.

Key Developments

• At least six U.S. military strikes against suspected drug vessels have occurred since September, resulting in approximately 27 fatalities.
• Colombian President Gustavo Petro condemned the U.S. actions, asserting that some targeted vessels were operated by Colombian nationals.
• White House spokesperson Anna Kelly defended the strikes, stating they targeted designated narco-terrorists responsible for drug trafficking.
• Legal experts have raised concerns about the legality of the strikes, arguing they may violate international law regarding the use of military force against non-state actors.
• Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro condemned U.S. actions as warmongering and a pursuit of regime change.

Legal and Political Implications

Experts question whether the U.S. strikes comply with international legal standards, particularly regarding operations in international waters. Human Rights Watch has labeled the strikes as extrajudicial killings, arguing that drug trafficking does not constitute an armed conflict. U.S. officials justify their actions under the premise of self-defense, citing the threat posed by drug cartels.

Despite the ongoing military actions, there has been bipartisan criticism in Congress regarding the lack of authorization for military force against drug traffickers. The Trump administration maintains that it has the authority to act under existing military powers, although this interpretation remains contested.

“When they're loaded up with drugs, they're fair game, and every one of those ships were,” President Trump stated regarding the targeted vessels.