President Trump confirmed Wednesday he authorized the CIA to conduct covert operations in Venezuela, citing claims—often without evidence—that Caracas sent prisoners and people from mental institutions to the U.S., and that drugs are flowing in by sea and land. He pointed to U.S. strikes on suspected drug boats—five in the Caribbean, killing at least 27—including a Tuesday strike that killed six. The moves, plus deployments of warships, a submarine and jets, drew bipartisan pushback over legal authority and evidence. Trump declined to say if Maduro is a CIA target.

Prepared by Lauren Mitchell and reviewed by editorial team.