After Venezuela operation, Trump signals possible action against Mexico, Cuba, Colombia
US President Donald Trump has issued a stark warning to Mexico, Cuba and Colombia in the aftermath of a US military operation in Venezuela that resulted in the capture of President Nicolás Maduro and what Washington described as a large-scale strike.
Trump suggested the United States was prepared to deploy “boots on the ground” in the region, citing concerns over narco-terrorism and the influence of drug networks. He signalled that neighbouring countries could face consequences if the situation continued unchecked.
Trump on Cuba
Addressing Cuba, Trump said the island nation was in serious decline and suggested it would soon become a subject of US focus.
Speaking to Fox News, he said his administration wanted to help ordinary Cubans, while also recognising those who were forced to leave the country and later made their lives in the United States. Trump presented his remarks as an effort to support people. “We want to help the people,” Trump said.
Trump on Colombia
Trump also turned his criticism towards Colombia and its President, Gustavo Petro. He alleged that the country was home to multiple large cocaine production facilities and accused Colombian authorities of allowing drugs to flow into the United States. “They're sending it into the United States. So he does have to watch his a**,” Trump said.
Warning that such activity could not be ignored, Trump said Petro would have to be cautious. Petro, who is aligned with Maduro, has accused Washington of breaching United Nations principles and claimed that one strike near Venezuela’s coast had hit civilian targets.
Trump on Mexico
On Mexico, Trump claimed President Claudia Sheinbaum lacked effective control over the country, arguing that powerful drug cartels held the upper hand.
He added, “They're running Mexico. I've asked her numerous times would you like us to take out the cartels.”
He said she was intimidated by criminal groups and rejected US offers to help dismantle cartel operations. According to Trump, repeated refusals from Mexico left Washington with little choice but to consider alternative actions.