Overview
- U.S. forces have surged into the Caribbean, including the USS Gerald R. Ford, and at least 14 suspected drug boats have been struck since September, leaving more than 60 dead.
- Trump told 60 Minutes he believes Nicolás Maduro’s rule is nearing its end and declined to say whether he would order land strikes inside Venezuela.
- Sens. Rand Paul and Tim Kaine plan to revive a measure to limit unilateral action inside Venezuela after the administration argued boat strikes did not require congressional authorization.
- Reports indicate Maduro sought Russian air‑defense support as Moscow voiced political backing, though analysts say Russia’s ability to counter a determined U.S. move is limited.
- Major banks and investors have held private talks about a post‑Maduro opening, while energy analysts warn military action could disrupt heavy‑sour exports and lift Brent and diesel prices.