WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump has stated he will soon initiate “ground action” against Venezuela, citing various grievances with the South American nation.
Speaking at a White House ceremony, President Trump outlined a hardline approach to combat drug trafficking into the United States. “There is no need to declare war on drug traffickers, we will kill those who are bringing drugs into the United States,” he stated.
While he confirmed his administration is taking steps to block maritime drug routes, the President denied recent reports about deploying B-1 bomber aircraft near Venezuela, calling them false.
He also made sweeping allegations about regional drug trade, claiming that “Colombia has become a drug haven” and that “drug cartels are running Mexico.” Furthermore, he accused China of using Venezuela as a conduit for smuggling the synthetic opioid fentanyl.
On other foreign policy matters, President Trump commented on sanctions against Russian oil companies, suggesting that the full impact would be clear in about six months. Regarding the Middle East, he expressed confidence that Israel would not move forward with annexing parts of the West Bank. He also remained optimistic about the outcomes of his upcoming meeting with the Chinese President.
Trump tells Modi speaking during a Diwali event, Mr. Trump revealed he had recently spoken with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He described their conversation as positive, covering topics like trade and, notably, the importance of avoiding war with Pakistan.
“I told them, ‘let’s have no wars with Pakistan’,” Mr. Trump told reporters. He credited the influence of trade discussions as a tool for de-escalation, adding, “And we have no war with Pakistan and India. That was a very, very good thing.”
