Summary
President Donald Trump has increased pressure on Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro by strengthening efforts to capture him and deploying military forces near Venezuela. Trump has accused Maduro of causing a surge in drug trafficking and migration issues that affect the United States. Over the years, Maduro has maintained control in Venezuela despite international claims of illegitimate elections.
Key Facts
- President Trump has increased the reward for information leading to Maduro's capture.
- U.S. military forces, including warships, have been sent near Venezuela to combat drug trafficking.
- Maduro has been Venezuela's president since 2013 and maintains control over the military, police, and government.
- Many countries, including the U.S., declared the 2024 Venezuelan presidential election illegitimate.
- Trump claims Maduro is partly responsible for increased Venezuelan migration to the U.S.
- Trump designated two Venezuelan groups as terrorist organizations, alleging Maduro leads one.
- The U.S. military has conducted strikes in international waters against boats allegedly carrying drugs.
- Analysts argue "Cartel de los Soles" is not a single group but a term for corrupt Venezuelan officials facilitating drug transit.
