Overview
- New York Times reporting, cited by RIA, says many senior advisers urge removing Nicolás Maduro while President Trump hesitates over military risks and outcomes.
- The USS Gerald R. Ford is moving toward the region as part of an expanded U.S. presence, following recent maritime strikes on suspected drug-trafficking vessels near Venezuela.
- Washington’s pressure is framed by a 2020 narcotics indictment of Maduro and an increased reward of $50 million for information leading to his capture.
- Russia has ratified a strategic partnership with Venezuela and reiterated political backing, yet experts quoted by Radio Svoboda say Ukraine-related commitments and logistics limit any military response.
- The Washington Post reported Maduro sought Russian help to bolster air defenses and repair fighter jets, and flight trackers logged a Russian Il‑76 landing in Caracas, though officials have not confirmed any new deliveries.