Trump administration escalates pressure on Venezuela

Tuesday, November 18, 2025 -The Trump administration has dramatically ramped up its campaign against Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, framing him and his inner circle as narco-terrorists while deploying a full-scale military and legal assault. 

In a sweeping move, the U.S. has designated the so-called Cartel de los Soles, allegedly led by Maduro, as a Foreign Terrorist Organization. Beyond the rhetoric, Washington has placed a $50 million bounty on Maduro’s head, signaling a serious escalation in its efforts to force regime change.

On the military front, the U.S. has launched Operation Southern Spear, deploying thousands of troops, the USS Gerald R. Ford aircraft carrier, and high-end naval assets to the Caribbean. 

Since September 2025, American forces have carried out at least 21 strikes on vessels accused of carrying drug traffickers linked to Venezuelan groups, with more than 80 reported fatalities so far. Meanwhile, Venezuela has mobilized its own forces, including its national militia, warning that it is preparing to defend itself against what it describes as U.S. aggression.

Beyond the military pressure, the Trump administration is tightening its economic grip as well. It has imposed a 25% tariff on goods from any country trading in Venezuelan oil, further isolating Maduro’s government. 

On the diplomatic front, even with some back-channel discussions underway, the U.S. has rejected a recent Venezuelan proposal for a phased power handover — making clear it has no intention of backing down from its hardline strategy.