Former US President Donald Trump has issued a stark warning that the United States is prepared to launch a second, significantly larger military assault on Venezuela if necessary. The threat follows recent American strikes aimed at capturing the country's leader, President Nicolas Maduro.
'Boots on the Ground' Not Ruled Out
In a stunning statement delivered during a press conference on Friday, 3 January 2026, Trump escalated tensions dramatically. He explicitly declined to rule out deploying American ground troops, ominously referring to the potential for "boots on the ground" in the South American nation.
The former president framed the potential escalation as part of a move for the US to "run the country", signalling a profound interventionist stance. His four-word warning of a "much larger" subsequent attack has sent shockwaves through diplomatic circles.
Context of the Initial Strikes
The warning comes in the direct aftermath of confirmed US military action against Venezuelan targets. The stated objective of the initial operation was the capture of President Nicolas Maduro, whose regime has long been at odds with Washington.
Trump's latest comments represent a severe intensification of rhetoric, moving beyond targeted strikes to openly discuss a full-scale military campaign and occupation. This marks one of the most direct threats against a sovereign state in the Western Hemisphere in recent decades.
Potential Consequences and Global Reaction
The prospect of a large-scale US invasion and occupation of Venezuela would have far-reaching implications:
- Regional destabilisation: It could provoke a major refugee crisis and destabilise neighbouring countries in Latin America.
- Global energy markets: Venezuela possesses the world's largest proven oil reserves, and conflict would likely cause significant volatility in global oil prices.
- International diplomacy: Such action would likely face fierce condemnation from allies and adversaries alike, potentially isolating the US on the world stage.
The situation remains fluid, with the international community awaiting further developments and official responses from the Biden administration and other global powers. Trump's remarks, made during a campaign-style press conference, have instantly become a focal point for foreign policy debate.
