Trump Confirms CIA Green Light for Venezuela Ops, Maduro Warns of Escalation. US President Donald Trump has openly confirmed he authorised the CIA to conduct covert operations inside Venezuela — a rare admission that's triggered fury in Caracas. In recent weeks, US forces have carried out five deadly maritime strikes in the Caribbean, killing 27 people. UN experts have condemned the actions as "extrajudicial executions.” Speaking at the White House, Trump said the US is "looking at land" for further strikes on drug cartels. He justified the move by accusing Venezuela of exporting drugs and releasing prisoners into the US. Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro — whose presidency is hotly disputed internationally — called for peace but also ordered military drills near Caracas. His government warned Washington against what it called "CIA-orchestrated coups.” The US has ramped up its military presence in the region with warships, fighter jets, and a nuclear submarine, sparking fears of a wider confrontation. Meanwhile, questions remain over whether the CIA's mission aims to target drug networks — or Maduro himself. Instructions: THIS VIDEO MUST NOT BE EDITED FOR LENGTH TO COMBINE WITH OTHER CONTENT