Overview
- The carrier strike group’s move follows Operation Southern Spear targeting transnational criminal networks viewed as threats to the United States.
- U.S. forces report 20 strikes on suspected narcotrafficking boats since September, with a cumulative death toll near 80.
- CBS News reports senior commanders briefed President Trump on expanded Venezuela options that could include land strikes, with no decision announced.
- At a Caracas rally, Nicolás Maduro invoked John Lennon’s 'Imagine' in a televised appeal for peace as he faces U.S. pressure.
- Venezuela has mobilized about 200,000 troops and Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino accuses U.S. crews of extrajudicial killings, while Colombia halts intelligence sharing in protest.