Confirmed he has made a decision (without saying what) regarding Venezuela, and stated that “we have made significant progress in stopping drug entry.”
By: La Tabla/Data Journalism Platform 15 NOV 2025
A brief statement from President Donald Trump has shifted the security conversation in the region. When asked about Venezuela, Trump quickly redirected the focus: “We have made a lot of progress with Venezuela […] but we have a problem with Mexico. We have a problem with Colombia.”
This rhetorical shift is no accident. While the question focused on Venezuela, the answer redirected attention toward a regional anti-drug strategy, suggesting that the perceived success in dealing with Caracas could potentially be replicated.
Ambiguity as a Tool
When pressed about his concrete plans, Trump relied on his signature phrase: “Well, we’ll see what happens.” This ambiguity serves three strategic purposes:
· Maintains pressure on regional governments
· Avoids domestic debate over foreign interventions
· Preserves future freedom of action
The same formula was used when asked about possible military action in Venezuela: “We’ll see what happens with Venezuela.”
Decision Made or Political Calculation?
The core question remains unanswered: Does Trump actually have a decision made to act in Venezuela? His evasiveness suggests more of a calculated pressure strategy rather than a defined operational plan. By including Mexico and Colombia in the discussion, Trump not only broadens the potential theater of operations but also lays the groundwork to justify future actions under the narrative of a “regional problem.”
The lingering question is whether this rhetorical expansion will signal an operational expansion of the policies Washington has applied against Venezuela.