Trump publicly warned airlines and pilots to stay clear of Venezuelan airspace, leading to suspensions and broader international airspace concerns.

Millions of Venezuelans have fled the crisis, with estimates suggesting about 8 million people have left since the mid-2010s, creating significant displacement across neighboring countries.

Analysts highlight a long history of US regime-change efforts in Latin America and underscore the humanitarian and legal complexities of any potential intervention.

The United States has positioned a sizable military force near Venezuela, including a large aircraft carrier, two guided-missile destroyers, a special operations ship, and roughly 12,000 troops, as strikes on suspected drug-smuggling vessels continue.

The Trump administration has accused Nicolas Maduro of drug trafficking and terrorism, labeling Maduro and other officials as part of a foreign terrorist organization, while experts note that the Cartel de los Soles is more a label than a single cohesive group.

The United States appears to be moving toward direct actions against Venezuela, with warnings to close Venezuelan airspace and indications of imminent land operations targeting drug trafficking.

US strikes on boats near Venezuela have reportedly caused numerous deaths, drawing condemnation from the UN rights chief and raising concerns about potential international-law violations and extrajudicial killings.

Trump has expanded US involvement in the region, pressing Latin American voters toward conservative candidates and signaling possible pardons tied to drug-trafficking cases.