Reuters: US to launch new phase of operations targeting Venezuela

Four US officials told Reuters that the United States plans to begin a new phase of operations related to Venezuela in the coming days.

Two sources indicated that covert operations are likely to serve as the first step in renewed actions against the regime of Nicolás Maduro. Another senior US administration official did not rule out further measures against Venezuela.

"President Trump is prepared to use every element of American power to stop drugs from flooding into our country and to bring those responsible to justice," said the official, speaking on the condition of anonymity.

The Trump administration has been weighing Venezuela-related options to combat what it has portrayed as Maduro’s role in supplying illegal drugs that have killed Americans. He has denied having any links to the illegal drug trade.

The United States plans to designate on November 24 the Cartel de los Soles as a foreign terrorist organisation for its alleged role in importing illegal drugs into the United States, officials said. The Trump administration has accused Maduro of leading Cartel de los Soles, which he denies.

By Khagan Isayev