US Secretary of War Warns Maduro: "You Have Decisions to Make, We Are Ready to Use Our Power"

US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth delivered a strong message to Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. Hegseth emphasized that thousands of American troops stationed in the Caribbean are conducting a “real operation” and are prepared to act against those involved in drug trafficking.

In an interview with Fox News, Hegseth noted that Washington has long been aware of Maduro’s links to drug trafficking and reminded viewers of the $50 million reward issued by a New York court. “Maduro has decisions to make… The US is ready to use its power to eliminate drug traffickers,” he said.

The Pentagon stated that the Caribbean operation involves more than 15 warships, around 10 aircraft, and approximately 7,000 personnel. Speaking to troops in Puerto Rico, Hegseth stressed that this is not a training exercise and that they are on the front lines.

The operation marks one of the largest US military deployments in the region and serves as a clear warning to the Maduro government.