Intelligence Memo Contradicts Trump on Venezuela Gang Ties | JQJO

A declassified intelligence memo contradicts President Trump's claims that Venezuela's government directly controls the Tren de Aragua gang. The memo, released following a Freedom of Information Act request, states that while Venezuela's permissive environment enables the gang's operations, the Maduro regime doesn't orchestrate its U.S. activities. This contradicts Trump's justification for using the 1798 Alien Enemies Act to deport Venezuelans to a harsh El Salvadorian prison. While some intelligence agencies suggested facilitation by Venezuelan officials, the overall assessment found no direct control. The memo's release sparked debate, with the Director of National Intelligence defending the administration's actions and Democratic lawmakers criticizing the administration's handling of the information and its use of the Alien Enemies Act.