Trump Admin Plans Urgent Leaflet Drop Targeting Maduro in Venezuela

URGENT UPDATE: The Trump administration is exploring the possibility of dropping leaflets over Venezuela as President Nicolás Maduro approaches his 63rd birthday on Sunday, November 26, 2023. This operation, which has not yet received official authorization, could include details about a staggering $50 million reward for information leading to Maduro’s arrest and conviction on serious charges, including drug trafficking and narco-terrorism.

Sources familiar with the matter have confirmed to CBS News that the discussions took place recently among administration officials, as first reported by the Washington Post. This tactic, reminiscent of psychological warfare techniques employed globally, has been used by the U.S. military in various conflicts, including during the lead-up to the 2003 invasion of Iraq.

The potential leaflet drop comes amid an escalation in military pressure from the Trump administration, including targeted strikes on alleged drug boats. U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has actively promoted these operations on social media, underscoring the administration’s commitment to combating drug cartels linked to Maduro’s regime.

Moreover, Trump has recently authorized the CIA to undertake covert operations within Venezuela. He has informed Congress of his ongoing conflict with drug cartels and is weighing the option of conducting strikes inside Venezuela to undermine Maduro’s authority. However, these military actions have stirred fears of escalating tensions that could spiral into a broader conflict with Venezuela and neighboring Colombia.

In a bid to restrain potential military escalation, U.S. Senator Tim Kaine, D-Va., proposed a bipartisan bill aimed at preventing the Trump administration from initiating an outright war with Venezuela. Critics argue that only Congress has the constitutional authority to declare war, placing further scrutiny on the administration’s military strategy.

The United Nations has also weighed in, with the office of the U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights condemning the strikes on drug boats. They argue that such actions violate international law and constitute extrajudicial killings, raising serious ethical and legal concerns about the U.S. military’s operations in the region.

As the situation unfolds, the international community watches closely. The implications of these potential leaflet drops and military actions could be profound, not only for Venezuela but for regional stability as well. Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.