JD Vance, the U.S. Vice President, has responded to critics questioning the Trump administration’s approach to Venezuela, particularly regarding claims that the country plays a minimal role in the narcotics trade. Vance emphasized that while Venezuela may not be a major source of illegal fentanyl, it still has significant involvement in the cocaine trade, which fuels Latin American drug cartels.
In a statement posted on X, Vance asserted, “First, fentanyl is not the only drug in the world. However, fentanyl continues to come from Venezuela (or at least has until recently). Secondly, cocaine, the primary drug trafficked from Venezuela, is a source of profit for all Latin American drug cartels. If we cut off their cocaine funding (or at least reduce it), we significantly weaken the cartels as a whole. And cocaine is bad.”
Vance’s remarks come as the Trump administration faces scrutiny over its foreign policy decisions in Venezuela. Former President Donald Trump has justified U.S. actions by highlighting Venezuela’s involvement in the drug trade, which he claims results in the deaths of hundreds of Americans each year. He pointed out that while fentanyl is often manufactured within the U.S. or intercepted at the southwestern border with Mexico, Venezuela still plays a role in the broader narcotics landscape.
Military Intervention Concerns and Historical Context
Addressing public concerns about potential military intervention in Venezuela, Vance referenced historical grievances. He pointed out that approximately 20 years ago, Venezuela expropriated American oil assets. He stated, “Venezuela has been using that stolen property to enrich itself and fund its narcoterrorist activities. I understand the concerns regarding the use of military force, but should we just allow communists in our hemisphere to steal our property and do nothing? Great powers do not behave that way.”
His comments underscore a complex interplay between U.S. foreign policy and the ongoing drug crisis, reflecting how geopolitical actions are often intertwined with domestic issues such as drug trafficking and public safety.
Vance acknowledged Mexico’s role in the fentanyl trafficking crisis and confirmed that the administration continues to focus significant efforts on curbing that flow. As the U.S. grapples with the ramifications of drug trade and international relations, the debate over the appropriate response to Venezuela remains a contentious issue.
