In a significant escalation of its overseas counter-narcotics campaign, the United States has carried out its first confirmed military strike on a target inside Venezuela. The operation, reportedly executed by the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) earlier this month, targeted a remote dock facility on the Venezuelan coastline.
Trump Acknowledges 'Major Explosion' in Dock Area
US President Donald Trump appeared to confirm the covert action during an informal radio discussion on Friday, December 27, 2025. He provided further details on Monday, December 30, whilst meeting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at his Mar-a-Lago club in Palm Beach, Florida.
When questioned by journalists about reports of an explosion in Venezuela, Trump stated, "There was a major explosion in the dock area where they load the boats up with drugs." He elaborated that the US had targeted the site, which he described as an "implementation area" for drug trafficking, asserting that "that is no longer around."
Intelligence Points to Tren de Aragua Cartel Base
According to intelligence reports cited by CNN, the isolated port was being used by the powerful Venezuelan criminal organisation, the Tren de Aragua. The facility was allegedly a hub for storing narcotics and loading them onto vessels destined for international distribution networks.
Officials believe the site was unoccupied at the time of the strike, and there have been no reports of casualties. The attack is said to have generated minimal attention, even within Venezuela, when it occurred.
Strike Risks Heightening US-Venezuela Tensions
This unprecedented move inside Venezuelan territory is poised to severely exacerbate already strained relations between Washington and the government of President Nicolás Maduro. The US has long pursued a policy of maximum pressure against Maduro, aiming to force him from power, which includes a stringent economic blockade targeting Venezuela's oil exports.
While President Trump has frequently threatened action within Venezuela, previous confirmed US strikes were limited to targeting suspected drug trafficking boats in international waters. This CIA-led drone strike represents a bold new tactic. The broader US anti-drug operation in the region has seen over 30 vessels targeted in the Caribbean Sea and eastern Pacific Ocean.
When approached for comment by CNN, the CIA declined to provide any statement on the reported operation.
