In a dramatic shift in U.S. foreign policy, President Trump warns Mexico, Cuba and Colombia could be next after the recent capture of Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro, escalating tensions across the Western Hemisphere.
Trump announced the unprecedented military operation that led to Maduro’s arrest and transfer to New York, where he faces federal charges including narco-terrorism and drug trafficking. The U.S. president framed the action as a decisive move against narco-criminal networks threatening American security, saying similar concerns now extend to neighboring states.
Speaking to reporters, the president accused Colombia’s leadership of facilitating cocaine production destined for the United States, suggesting Washington might take action if the issue persists. “Colombia is very sick… it sounds good to me,” Trump said when asked about possible military measures.
On Mexico, Trump reiterated long-standing complaints about drug cartels exploiting border weaknesses, warning that “something needs to be done” to stem the flow of narcotics into the U.S. He emphasised that this is part of a broader strategy to secure the region and protect American citizens.
Trump also took aim at Cuba’s Communist regime, describing the island as a “failing nation” after the loss of Venezuelan oil support and warning the government in Havana may soon collapse under economic pressure. His comments were echoed by U.S. lawmakers who characterised the Cuban leadership as a destabilizing force in the region.
The president’s remarks have fueled international debate over U.S. interventionism, sovereignty and regional stability. Russia and other nations condemned the Maduro operation as a breach of international law, stressing that such military actions risk wider conflict.
As Trump warns Mexico, Cuba and Colombia by name, leaders in Latin America are calling for diplomatic engagement to de-escalate tensions, even as the U.N. Security Council prepares to discuss the crisis.
