General Discussion

Trump Wants to Start a War

On September 2, 2025, the U.S. launched its first shelling against a Venezuelan vessel, which Trump claims was operated by the Tren de Aragua drug cartel. However, there is no clear evidence that the boat was carrying drugs. The action was framed as a drug interdiction effort; critics argued that Trump also used the announcement to divert attention from other political issues, such as SNAP benefits and healthcare. In early September 2025, the Trump administration initiated a military campaign targeting suspected drug-smuggling vessels. On September 2, the U.S. carried out the first strike against a vessel off the coast of Venezuela, killing 11 people (Just Security; WLRN). A second reported strike occurred on September 15, killing three people aboard what officials described as a narcotics-trafficking vessel in international waters (Just Security). Four days later, on September 19, a third strike killed another three individuals (Just Security). The campaign continued into October, with a sixth strike on October 16 in the Caribbean Sea near Venezuela that killed two people and left two survivors (Just Security). The operation then expanded to the Eastern Pacific on October 21–22, with two separate strikes killing a total of five people (Just Security). On October 27, four vessels in the Eastern Pacific were struck, killing 14 people and leaving one survivor, followed by another strike on October 29 that killed four more (Just Security). By November, the campaign showed no signs of slowing; a strike on November 1 in the Caribbean killed at least three individuals, and another on November 4 in the Eastern Pacific killed two others (Just Security). By early November 2025, reports indicated roughly 17 known strikes and at least 69 people killed (WLRN).
The operations primarily occurred in the Caribbean Sea and the Eastern Pacific Ocean, especially near Venezuela and the northeastern coast of South America (WLRN). The U.S. government claimed that the targeted vessels were operated by groups labeled as “Designated Terrorist Organizations (DTOs)” or “narcoterrorists,” including the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua and the Colombian guerrilla group National Liberation Army—though publicly available evidence remains limited (Just Security). The legal basis for the campaign has been widely debated, as the administration has described the strikes as part of an ongoing “armed conflict” against these groups, raising questions about congressional approval, compliance with international law, and due process protections (WLRN). There is no concrete evidence of any drug activity, and none of those killed have been identified.
Trump has also indicated he wants to deploy troops to Venezuela to fight the drug trade. However, there is a small chance of a limited ground invasion, like raids, special forces missions, and strikes inside Venezuela.
Other presidents have used the same technique. See the following:

President Year Action Alleged Domestic Distraction
Bill Clinton 1998 Missile strikes on Sudan & Afghanistan Lewinsky scandal
Ronald Reagan 1983 Grenada invasion Beirut bombing fallout
George H. W. Bush 1989 Panama invasion Domestic criticism
George W. Bush 2003 Iraq War Political consolidation post-9/11
James Polk 1846 Mexican-American War Territorial ambitions

William McKinley 1898 Spanish-American War Economic/political unity

The U.S. government seems, at least on paper, to be systematically assembling the political, economic, and strategic parts needed for a possible regime change in Venezuela. Policy statements, diplomatic efforts, and resource allocations indicate a coordinated effort, even if not officially recognized, pointing toward plans to reshape the country’s leadership and influence in the region.

Other reasons Trump may want to strike at the drug cartels:
1. Political Distraction: Highlighting the threat of drug cartels can divert public focus from domestic issues or controversies, supporting a narrative of strong leadership.
2. Rallying the base: A firm stance on drug cartels appeals to specific voter groups, strengthening Trump's image as a strong leader dedicated to national security.
3. Legacy Building: Taking strong action against drug cartels helps President Trump present himself as a leader who has taken decisive steps to defend American communities, thereby shaping his political legacy.
4. Geopolitical Strategy: The emphasis on Venezuela, including covert actions and military deployments, matches broader geopolitical goals, such as pressuring the Maduro regime and shaping regional dynamics.
5. Economic leverage: Sanctions and military actions serve as tools to influence economic and political outcomes in Latin American countries, aligning with broader U.S. foreign policy goals.
These are difficult times for the United States and the world, characterized by division and uncertainty about what may come next. As a nation, we must stand up politically to ensure that everyone, regardless of race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, disability, or age, is protected.