Senior U.S. officials are evaluating multiple military strike options against Venezuela while simultaneously pursuing discreet diplomatic discussions with President Nicolás Maduro’s inner circle, according to individuals familiar with the administration’s deliberations. The dual-track strategy reflects a renewed White House effort to influence political change in the country amid a deepening humanitarian crisis.
Military Scenarios Under Review
Inside the Situation Room, advisers have outlined several limited-scope strike scenarios aimed at Venezuelan military and intelligence infrastructure. The proposals, described as “targeted” rather than expansive, are intended to minimize civilian casualties and avoid a prolonged conflict. Officials say President Trump showed interest in the plans but emphasized that no final decision has been made.
According to a senior official, the administration views these military options as contingency steps rather than active preparations for war. “This is about pressure, not invasion,” the official said.
Quiet Talks with the Maduro Government
Alongside military planning, U.S. officials have opened a discreet communication channel with Maduro’s government. The early-stage discussions reportedly center on potential transition pathways and security guarantees, should Venezuela’s leadership consider stepping aside.
People familiar with the conversations describe them as “delicate” and “preliminary.” The White House hopes that the combination of diplomatic engagement and the credible threat of force will encourage concessions from Caracas that were previously out of reach.
Public Messaging Keeps ‘All Options on the Table’
Publicly, President Trump has refused to rule out the use of force when questioned by reporters. His statements mirror the administration’s multi-layered strategy: acknowledging the possibility of military action while affirming openness to dialogue with Maduro.
“The situation is being watched closely,” the President said during a brief exchange with the press. “We’re not taking anything off the table.”
Regional Concerns and Strategic Rationale
The administration’s renewed focus stems from concerns that Venezuela’s deepening political turmoil and economic collapse pose a widening threat to neighboring countries. Mass displacement, shortages of essential goods, and rising instability have fueled calls within the national security community for stronger U.S. involvement.
Officials argue that any potential U.S. action-military or diplomatic-would seek to weaken Maduro’s hold on power and ease conditions that have driven millions of Venezuelans to flee.
No Final Decision Yet
As of now, the Trump administration has not committed to military intervention. Advisers say the President is still weighing the potential benefits, risks, and global repercussions associated with each option.
For now, the U.S. continues to balance back-channel diplomacy with contingency planning, leaving the future of its Venezuela policy uncertain.
