NBC News: US prepares options for attack on drug cartels in Venezuela

The US military leadership is preparing various options for attacks against drug cartels on Venezuelan territory. The first operations could begin in a few weeks, four unnamed officials told NBC News. However, President Donald Trump has not yet approved any operations.

According to NBC News, there are also indirect contacts between Washington and Caracas on this matter via intermediaries in the Middle East. The initial plans primarily involve drone strikes against cartel leaders, their coordinators, and drug laboratories.

Three sources described the escalation of tensions as the administration's response to Venezuela's alleged failure to stop drug smuggling into the US. The broadcaster also recalled that in recent weeks, the military had attacked several Venezuelan ships suspected of transporting drugs.

At least eight ships and more than 4,000 soldiers were sent to the Caribbean. In addition, F-35 fighter jets were deployed to Puerto Rico. In its response, the White House repeated warning statements about the threat posed by narco-terrorist organizations.

(nbc news, reuters, sab)