Ex-Colombian President Backs US Strikes on Maduro’s Cartels

UPDATE: In a striking endorsement, former Colombian President Iván Duque has voiced strong support for US military strikes targeting Venezuelan drug trafficking operations, declaring, “If the US wants to undertake precision operations against those cartels, I am in favour of that.” This statement comes amid escalating tensions surrounding drug trafficking in the region.

In an exclusive interview with FRANCE 24, Duque criticized current Colombian president Gustavo Petro, who condemned the US operations as “murder.” Duque asserted that the US military’s capabilities for interdiction are “lawful” and necessary to combat the rampant drug trade linked to the Venezuelan regime.

Duque described Venezuela as “run by a dictator who is now the head of the Cartel de los Soles,” emphasizing the urgent need for international action against drug trafficking that destabilizes the region. His comments highlight a sharp divide in Colombian leadership regarding how to address the escalating crisis as drug-related violence continues to plague both Colombia and Venezuela.

The former president’s remarks come at a time when the US is reportedly considering more aggressive measures against drug trafficking networks that operate within Venezuela. With the drug trade increasingly affecting security and governance in Colombia, Duque’s support for military action signals a potentially significant policy shift in the region.

As tensions rise, all eyes are on the US and its next steps regarding operations against these cartels. The international community is closely monitoring the situation, with implications that could affect diplomatic relations in South America.

What happens next? Watch for potential announcements from the US military regarding operations in the coming days, as well as reactions from both the Colombian and Venezuelan governments. The outcome of this situation could have far-reaching consequences for regional stability and security.

This developing story raises critical questions about the effectiveness of military intervention in addressing complex issues surrounding drug trafficking and governance in Venezuela. As the debate intensifies, the global community remains engaged in discussions about the best path forward to combat this ongoing crisis.