Former US President Donald Trump has signalled a significant escalation in military tactics against suspected narcotics traffickers, declaring that operations will expand from maritime to terrestrial targets.
A Strategic Escalation in Anti-Drug Operations
Speaking on Tuesday, 2 December 2025, Trump addressed ongoing US efforts to combat alleged drug-carrying vessels originating from Venezuela. He revealed that while "sea strikes" are currently underway, a new phase of the campaign is imminent. "We're doing these [sea] strikes and we're going to start doing those strikes on land, too," Trump stated, framing the shift as a tactical advantage. He emphasised that executing missions on solid ground would be "much easier, much easier" compared to naval engagements.
Context and Implications of the Announcement
The declaration, made in New York and reported at 19:07 GMT, represents a potential major shift in US defence and foreign policy concerning Venezuela and the international drug trade. By explicitly threatening strikes on sovereign territory, the statement raises profound questions about strategy and international law. The focus on Venezuelan routes highlights the continued geopolitical tensions in the region, with the US employing military force as a primary tool in its counter-narcotics strategy.
Analysing the 'Land is Easier' Claim
Trump's assertion that land-based strikes are simpler is a notable detail that military analysts will scrutinise. This perspective may refer to factors such as:
- Improved intelligence gathering for fixed land targets.
- Reduced operational complexity compared to dynamic naval environments.
- Different rules of engagement potentially applying.
However, such operations also carry heightened risks of escalation and civilian casualties, making this a contentious and strategically weighty development. The announcement, delivered by Isabel Keane, leaves key questions unanswered regarding the timeline, specific targets, and authorisation for these proposed land strikes.
