Trump's moves against Maduro deepen as drug fight appears aimed at ousting regime

Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro is unlikely to resign peacefully due to limited options for a comfortable exile, contrasting with past dictators. His regime faces mounting pressure from the U.S., which is reportedly preparing new operations aimed at his overthrow.

The US Justice Department's memo regarding military strikes against drug cartels in the Caribbean presents a legal justification that diverges from President Trump's narrative, framing the actions as self-defense for US allies without explicitly naming aggressors. This legal stance is based on the assertion that drug cartels are engaging in armed violence against the security forces of countries like Mexico, financed by cocaine shipments.

The U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has ordered an investigation into Arizona Senator Mark Kelly following comments made in a social media video where Kelly and other Democratic lawmakers encouraged military personnel to refuse unlawful orders. This directive was issued to the Navy Secretary, John Phelan, to review the potentially unlawful nature of Kelly's remarks.

The Trump administration has announced a new policy to retroactively vet refugees who have already been resettled in the United States, a move that immigration rights advocates claim targets some of the most vulnerable individuals in society. This policy raises concerns about the implications for those who have already established their lives in the U.S.

Ukraine has informed the Trump administration of its willingness to sign a U.S.-drafted peace deal aimed at ending the ongoing war with Russia, with only minor details left to finalize. This development comes as discussions between U.S. and Russian officials are reportedly progressing, indicating a potential resolution to a conflict that has persisted for nearly two years.

U.S. officials are currently engaged in discussions with a Russian delegation in Abu Dhabi, following a meeting with Ukrainian representatives who have amended a peace deal initially drafted during the Trump administration. This dialogue occurs amidst ongoing tensions, highlighted by a recent airstrike by Russia on Kyiv during the talks.

The U.S. government has announced a historic $50 million reward for information leading to the arrest of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, a move that underscores the ongoing tensions between the two nations. This unprecedented financial incentive aims to bolster efforts against Maduro, who has been accused of drug trafficking and human rights violations.

Venezuela has issued a demand for international airlines to resume flights to the country within 48 hours, threatening to revoke their clearance to operate if they fail to comply. This ultimatum comes amid ongoing tensions and a deteriorating situation in the region.