Trump justified his decision by stating that significant quantities of drugs were being smuggled into the United States from Venezuela, primarily via maritime routes.

“We’re now focusing on land since we have effectively managed the situation at sea,” Trump remarked.

When a journalist inquired why the coast guard wasn’t intercepting suspected drug trafficking vessels—a longstanding US approach—Trump dismissed such measures as “politically correct” and ineffective.

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has accused Donald Trump of attempting to oust him from leadership. Source: AAP / Miguel Gutierrez/EPA

Trump declined to answer when asked if the CIA has the authority to execute Maduro, saying: “I think Venezuela is feeling heat.”

Contentious use of military power

The Pentagon recently disclosed to Congress that Trump has determined the US is engaged in “a non-international armed conflict” with drug cartels.

Trump accused of moving US into another conflict

Trump also accused Venezuela of releasing large numbers of prisoners, including persons from mental health facilities, into the US, although he did not specify which border they were crossing.