Trump’s campaign to apply pressure on Maduro has involved an increased military presence in the area, as well as over two dozen military strikes on vessels suspected of drug trafficking in the Pacific Ocean and Caribbean Sea in proximity to the South American country. The assaults have resulted in the deaths of at least 100 individuals.
When asked if the aim was to remove Maduro from power, Trump responded to reporters: “Well, I think it probably would… That’s up to him what he wants to do. I think it’d be smart for him to do that. But again, we’re gonna find out.”
“If he wants to do something, if he plays tough, it’ll be the last time he’s ever able to play tough,” he added.
During the press conference, Trump also criticized Colombian President Gustavo Petro, with whom he has been at odds throughout the year.
“He’s no friend to the United States. He’s very bad. Very bad guy. He’s gotta watch his ass because he makes cocaine and they send it into the US,” Trump remarked when questioned about Petro’s commentary on the administration’s approach to the Venezuela situation.
Alongside the strikes, Trump had earlier announced a “blockade” on all oil tankers facing sanctions entering and leaving Venezuela. The US Coast Guard began pursuing an oil tanker in international waters near Venezuela on Sunday, marking what would be the second operation of its kind this weekend and the third in under two weeks if it proves successful.
“Maybe we will sell it, maybe we will keep it,” Trump said when questioned about the seized oil, adding that it might also be used to restock the United States’ strategic reserves.
