CNN 5 Things One Thing: Cartels, The CIA, and Trump’s True Intentions in Venezuela
Oct 19, 2025
In this discussion, Natasha Bertrand, a CNN correspondent focusing on national security, and Steven Dudley, co-director of InSight Crime, dive deep into U.S. military actions in Venezuela. They explore Trump’s authorization of CIA operations, raising questions about drug enforcement versus regime change. Bertrand highlights the escalating tensions surrounding Maduro’s government, while Dudley explains the disconnect between military strikes and the reality of drug trafficking, especially concerning fentanyl. Their insights reveal the multifaceted motives behind the U.S. strategy.
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Military Buildup And Caribbean Strikes
- The Trump administration began a major military buildup in the Caribbean and conducted strikes on boats it says came from Venezuela.
- Officials have posted videos of strikes that reportedly killed people, raising legal and factual questions.
CIA Authorization Publicly Announced
- President Trump said he authorized the CIA to conduct covert action inside Venezuela, including lethal targeting.
- Publicly disclosing such authorization is highly unusual and escalatory.
Terror Designation Enables Broader Actions
- The administration labeled Tren de Aragua a terrorist organization to justify armed conflict claims.
- That designation lets the U.S. frame strikes as self-defense and broaden targets inside Venezuela.
