Washington D.C. – Key figures from the former Trump administration are reportedly advocating for a renewed and intensified strategy aimed at removing Nicolás Maduro from power in Venezuela, according to recent discussions among political circles and foreign policy advisors.
The push by top aides, many of whom played significant roles in the Trump administration’s Latin America policy, signals a potential revival of a more aggressive stance toward Caracas should former President Donald Trump return to the White House. Their efforts reportedly focus on a comprehensive approach involving diplomatic isolation, enhanced economic sanctions, and robust support for Venezuela’s democratic opposition.
Sources familiar with the discussions indicate that former National Security Advisor John Bolton and former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo are among the prominent voices advocating for a definitive resolution to the Venezuelan crisis. Both officials were central to the Trump administration’s previous policy, which recognized opposition leader Juan Guaidí as interim president and implemented a wide array of sanctions against Maduro’s government and its allies.
“The Maduro regime remains an illegitimate and corrupt entity that poses a direct threat to regional stability and the democratic aspirations of the Venezuelan people,” one former high-ranking official, who requested anonymity to discuss ongoing deliberations, reportedly stated. “A comprehensive strategy is required, one that leverages all tools of American power to ensure a peaceful transition to democracy.”
The proposed strategies reportedly include tightening the enforcement of existing oil and financial sanctions, targeting individuals and entities involved in human rights abuses and drug trafficking, and increasing international pressure through multilateral organizations. There is also an emphasis on bolstering humanitarian aid to Venezuelans, both within the country and those who have fled to neighboring nations, as a means of undermining Maduro’s control and supporting the populace.
During his presidency, Donald Trump frequently described Maduro as a dictator and a puppet of Cuba, often stating that “all options are on the table” regarding Venezuela, a phrase that generated significant international speculation. While direct military intervention was never pursued, the administration’s policy was characterized by an unprecedented level of pressure aimed at forcing Maduro’s resignation.
Proponents of the renewed push argue that Maduro’s continued presence exacerbates the humanitarian crisis, drives mass migration, and contributes to regional instability, including through alleged ties to illicit activities. They maintain that a strong, decisive policy is essential to restore democracy and the rule of law in Venezuela.
Critics of such aggressive measures often point to the humanitarian impact of broad sanctions and the potential for unintended consequences, including further destabilization or increased suffering for ordinary Venezuelans. However, those advocating for Maduro’s ouster argue that the current trajectory under his rule is already catastrophic.
The discussions suggest a clear intention among some of Trump’s former advisors to prioritize regime change in Venezuela, signaling that if a future Trump administration takes office, Venezuela could once again become a central focus of U.S. foreign policy.
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