Venezuela Alleges It Detained CIA Group, Accuses U.S. Of Orchestrating "False Flag" Attack

Venezuela has accused the United States and Trinidad and Tobago of jointly orchestrating a covert operation to destabilize the Caribbean region. Vice President Delcy Rodríguez claims "mercenaries" linked to the CIA have been captured as part of a "false-flag operation" meant to provoke Venezuela, although specific details are lacking. Trinidad and Tobago's Prime Minister is accused of surrendering national sovereignty to the US, turning the country into a "military colony". Joint military exercises between the United States and Trinidad are denounced as a "hostile provocation" threatening regional stability. Venezuela alleges Trinidad is responsible for human rights abuses, including extrajudicial killings, without providing evidence. Despite the allegations, Venezuela's Interior Minister asserts they do not seek war, but are prepared to defend themselves. These accusations coincide with a U.S. military buildup in the Caribbean aimed at combating drug trafficking. The situation echoes past events, referencing the 2024 detention of individuals Venezuela accused of working with the CIA. Trump has signaled the potential for ground interventions in Venezuela. The accusations follow Trump posting a video on Truth Social of a training militia.