In a dramatic escalation of American involvement in South America, the Trump administration has secretly authorised US forces to conduct ground strikes against Venezuelan military targets, according to exclusive intelligence documents obtained by The Guardian.
A Controversial New Front
The authorisation represents a significant departure from previous US policy and could potentially draw American forces into direct combat operations within Venezuela. The classified directive permits targeted strikes against Venezuelan military assets that are deemed to threaten US interests or regional stability.
Intelligence Revelations
According to the leaked documents, the authorisation was granted through a classified presidential finding that provides the legal framework for such operations. The move comes amid escalating tensions between Washington and Caracas, with the Trump administration maintaining its pressure campaign against President Nicolás Maduro's government.
Military analysts express concern that this development could mark the beginning of a more direct US military involvement in Venezuela's protracted political and economic crisis. The authorisation appears to stop short of permitting large-scale ground operations but opens the door for precision strikes against specific targets.
Regional Implications
The policy shift has already raised eyebrows among international observers and regional partners. Several Latin American nations have previously expressed concern about potential foreign military intervention in Venezuela, fearing it could destabilise the entire region.
"This represents a dangerous escalation," noted one regional security expert who spoke on condition of anonymity. "While the authorisation may be limited in scope, once you open the door to military strikes, it becomes difficult to control how wide that door might swing."
Legal and Political Challenges
The move is likely to face significant legal and political challenges, both domestically and internationally. Critics argue that such authorisations require congressional approval, while supporters maintain the president has broad authority to protect American interests abroad.
The development comes at a sensitive time in US-Venezuela relations, with the Trump administration continuing to recognise opposition leader Juan Guaidó as the country's legitimate president while maintaining economic sanctions against Maduro's government.
