Trump Halts Diplomatic Efforts Amid Rising Tensions with Venezuela

U.S. President Donald Trump has put a stop to diplomatic efforts aimed at reaching an agreement with Venezuela. He directed his special envoy, Richard Grenell, to cease all outreach efforts, a move that has stirred up tensions between Washington and Caracas. This development came to light on Monday, with the New York Times as the first to report.

The call to halt diplomacy follows a series of U.S. military strikes targeting vessels believed to be transporting drugs off the coast of Venezuela. President Trump informed Congress that these actions are part of the U.S.'s involvement in a non-international armed conflict against drug cartels.

Despite speculation regarding potential military operations within Venezuela, a senior U.S. official revealed to Reuters that Trump has not yet decided to escalate military efforts. Meanwhile, Trump, addressing U.S. service members, indicated a shift in focus from sea-based narcotics interdiction to exploring land-based strategies. Tensions remain high, with Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro denying U.S. claims of drug production in the country and accusing the U.S. of trying to depose him.