Trump approves CIA activities in Venezuela amid escalating tensions with Maduro

President Donald Trump confirmed Wednesday that he had authorised covert CIA operations in Venezuela, significantly intensifying US pressure on President Nicolás Maduro's government. Trump also revealed he was considering launching strikes against Venezuelan drug cartels on land, following a series of deadly maritime operations targeting alleged narcotics-smuggling vessels. The developments have raised alarms in Congress, with lawmakers warning of the growing risk of a broader conflict.