Venezuela’s defense and interior ministers have been identified as potential targets by the United States, amid escalating tensions and growing pressure on the country’s remaining security leadership.
The move places senior figures within Venezuela’s power structure under increased scrutiny, particularly those overseeing the armed forces and internal security. The defense minister, Vladimir Padrino López, is regarded as a central figure in maintaining military cohesion and internal stability, while the interior minister plays a key role in policing and domestic security operations.
According to the emerging strategy, Washington is seeking to exert maximum pressure on influential officials who continue to hold operational control within the Venezuelan state. The aim, analysts say, is to force cooperation on issues including security, migration control, and the country’s political transition following recent upheaval.
The development follows heightened confrontation between Caracas and Washington, with Venezuelan officials warning against what they describe as foreign interference in national affairs. The defense ministry has repeatedly stressed the armed forces’ readiness to defend sovereignty and resist external pressure.
Critics warn that targeting senior security officials could further destabilize the situation, potentially provoking internal resistance or hardening positions within the military and security services. Supporters of the approach argue that pressuring key decision-makers is necessary to break political deadlock and compel meaningful change.
As tensions continue to rise, Venezuela’s leadership faces growing uncertainty, with the spotlight now firmly on figures who command the country’s military and internal security apparatus.
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