Trump Escalates Venezuela Standoff: Strikes, Maduro Capture Claimed

• US launched strikes on Caracas and claimed capture of Nicolas Maduro, marking a dramatic escalation against Venezuela's leftist government.
• Trump administration cites drug trafficking, accusing Maduro of leading "Cartel de los Soles" and links to criminal groups, justifying naval patrols and strikes.
• Beyond drug enforcement, the US aims for regime change, viewing Maduro's government as authoritarian and corrupt, with a $20 million reward for his capture.
• Venezuela's vast oil, gas, and gold reserves are a strategic interest, with Caracas suspecting US economic motives despite denials.
• Geopolitical rivalry plays a role, as Venezuela's ties with Russia, China, Iran, and Cuba prompt US pressure to weaken rivals' regional influence, risking further destabilization.

Why It Matters: Trump's Venezuela escalation is driven by drug claims, regime change, resource interests, and geopolitical rivalry.