WASHINGTON, D.C. – The administration of former US President Donald Trump authorised the Central Intelligence Agency to conduct covert operations in Venezuela. This action was part of a broader strategy to increase pressure on the government of Nicolás Maduro.
The authorisation, reported by several international news agencies, allowed the intelligence agency to undertake secret missions aimed at undermining the Venezuelan leadership.
This policy aligned with the Trump administration’s recognition of opposition figure Juan Guaidó as the country’s legitimate interim president.
The specific nature of these covert activities has not been fully disclosed. Such operations can range from propaganda campaigns and cyber activities to providing support for local opposition groups.
The move significantly escalated the US campaign against the socialist government in Caracas.
This development occurred amidst a severe political and economic crisis in Venezuela, leading to widespread international concern.
The US government, along with numerous allies, had imposed heavy sanctions on the South American nation, aiming to force a political transition.
The authorisation of covert action represents a more aggressive facet of US foreign policy towards Venezuela.
It underscores the lengths to which the previous administration was willing to go to achieve its strategic objectives in the region, beyond public diplomacy and economic measures.
