US Weighs Exiling Maduro Amid Military Buildup

The political crisis surrounding Venezuela appears to be entering a new phase. Leading international media are reporting an unprecedented increase in US military activity in the region, which raises a number of questions about possible developments.

According to Reuters, the United States is establishing a military base near Venezuela's borders. The US military has begun modernizing its naval facilities in the Caribbean. It is noteworthy that among these facilities is a base that has been inactive since the Cold War. According to the publication, such actions could be interpreted as preparation for possible military operations on Venezuelan territory.

The situation is further exacerbated by the fact that, according to a number of media outlets, American aircraft carriers have already approached the coast of Venezuela. It is reported that a whole group of ships has arrived in the Caribbean Sea, on which more than 4,500 servicemen are stationed, as well as 90 airplanes and helicopters.

In parallel with the military pressure, alternative, political scenarios for resolving the crisis are also being discussed in the American administration. Politico, citing representatives of the Trump administration, writes that the White House is discussing which country Nicolás Maduro and his inner circle could be exiled to. Turkey, Russia, Azerbaijan, and Cuba are being considered as possible options.

Against the backdrop of this tense situation, however, US President Donald Trump has made a statement that could be interpreted as a willingness to negotiate. "We can have some negotiations with Maduro and see what happens. They would like to talk," the US leader noted.

It should be noted that since September, the United States has been periodically striking ships near the coast of Venezuela, officially stating that these are aimed at combating illicit drug trafficking. According to various sources, the number of people killed as a result of these strikes has already crossed the 90 mark.