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https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c0ex1jq9pdvoPresident Donald Trump has confirmed reports he authorised the CIA to conduct covert operations inside Venezuela - and said he was considering strikes targeting drug cartels there.
US forces have already conducted at least five strikes on suspected drug-carrying boats in the Caribbean in recent weeks, killing 27 people. UN- appointed human rights experts have described the raids as "extrajudicial executions".
Speaking in the Oval Office, Trump said the US "is looking at land" as it considers further strikes in the region.
Trump has sought to increase pressure on President Nicolas Maduro, who the US and others do not recognise as Venezuela's rightful leader following disputed elections.
The increased US military presence in the region has raised fears in Caracas of a possible attack.
According to the New York Times, Trump's authorization would allow the CIA to carry out operations in Venezuela unilaterally or as part of any wider US military activity.
Jeff
