The United States and Venezuela are currently experiencing heightened tensions, with the US military presence in the Caribbean Sea significantly increasing the stakes. The US points to drug trafficking and allegations against Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro as the rationale for its actions. The Trump administration has offered a substantial reward for Maduro’s arrest, accusing him of running a drug cartel.
Although the US has stated it has no immediate plans for military action, the relationship between the two countries has been strained for a long time. The US also has not acknowledged Maduro’s election victories. International data, however, casts doubt on the claims of Venezuelan involvement in drug trafficking, and suggests that the drug issue may be a pretext.
According to United Nations data, the primary centers for coca cultivation and cocaine production are Colombia, Peru, and Bolivia. Colombia alone accounts for over two-thirds of global cocaine production. Venezuela is neither a significant producer nor a major transit country for drugs.
Statistics on drug seizures also support this. Much larger quantities of drugs are seized in Colombia, Ecuador, and Panama, while Venezuela’s share is less than two percent of the total seizures.
The US claims that around 250 tons of cocaine pass through Venezuela each year. This amount is relatively small compared to global production. A key question arises: if the threat is so significant, why isn’t the US increasing military pressure on the countries where the drugs are actually produced?
The Maduro government asserts that it is taking strong action against drugs, seizing many vessels and aircraft used for trafficking. However, these claims lack independent international verification.
It is also a fact that individuals connected to Maduro’s family have been convicted of drug trafficking in US courts. This suggests the possibility of corruption and collusion at high levels.
While drug trafficking is present, the available data suggests that Venezuela is not a major player. This raises questions about the true motives behind the US military pressure. Some observers believe the US is attempting to facilitate a coup to remove Maduro. Maduro himself has accused the US of trying to overthrow his government.
Throughout Latin America, the US has been accused of attempting to overthrow governments. Historical evidence shows US involvement in covert and overt operations in various countries, resulting in coups.
