The relationship between the US and Venezuela has deteriorated significantly. President Trump has long labeled Maduro a narco-trafficker and has increased the reward for information leading to his arrest to $50 million. The US has also refused to acknowledge Maduro’s victories in the 2018 and 2024 elections. The current crisis has escalated with the deployment of F-35 fighter jets and the consideration of surgical strikes against drug cartels. Maduro has responded with strong warnings, emphasizing Venezuela’s preparedness for armed conflict and rejecting US allegations regarding drug trafficking.
