In a significant escalation of tensions, President Donald Trump has indicated the United States is preparing to address drug trafficking networks operating from Venezuela through direct military operations on land. During a recent Thanksgiving briefing with service members, which was also reported by CNN, Trump emphasized this shift in strategy.

“The land strikes will be coming,” Trump stated regarding potential US military actions against Venezuela’s mainland. His administration has been seeking ways to combat narcotrafficking allegedly tied to the Maduro government for months. The president noted that while maritime efforts have reduced drug shipments from Venezuela into America, “land is easier” and action there is set to begin soon.

In a separate development reported by Newsweek, Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has voiced his readiness for conflict with the US. Dressed in camouflage fatigues and holding a sword, Maduro declared his country was prepared to defend itself against American threats or aggression at any point.

The current crisis represents one of the most volatile flashpoints between Washington and Caracas recently encountered. Following US designations that classify certain Venezuelan organizations as involved in narcotics activities, including labeling the Cartel de los Soles as a foreign terrorist group, military deployments are being considered part of an anti-drug strategy.