Trump Signals Possible Strikes in Venezuela, Mexico, Colombia; Calls Europe “Weak” in New Interview

US President Donald Trump escalated his rhetoric on Tuesday, refusing to rule out land strikes against suspected Venezuelan drug traffickers and suggesting that anti-drug military operations could be extended to Mexico and Colombia. His remarks came in a wide-ranging interview with Politico as senior administration officials prepared to brief top lawmakers amid rising geopolitical tensions.

Trump’s comments closely echoed the worldview laid out in his newly released National Security Strategy, which positions the US as reasserting influence in the Western Hemisphere while pressuring Europe to shift course or face “erasure.”

“They’re weak,” Trump said, taking aim at Europe’s political leaders. “They want to be so politically correct… Europe doesn’t know what to do.”

Troop Deployment to Venezuela Not Ruled Out

Pressed on whether he would consider deploying US troops to Venezuela to help oust President Nicolás Maduro, Trump said he would not discuss military strategy, adding only: “I don’t want to rule in or out.”

Asked if he would consider strikes in other drug-trade hotspots, including Mexico and Colombia, he responded: “I would.”

The comments come as the US faces scrutiny over a months-long campaign targeting alleged drug-smuggling vessels in the Caribbean and Pacific. That campaign intensified after a second strike on a suspected drug boat on September 2.

Later on Tuesday, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, Joint Chiefs Chairman Gen. Dan Caine, and Secretary of State Marco Rubio are expected to brief congressional leaders and intelligence committee heads, according to Reuters.

EU Responds After Trump Labels Europe “Weak”

Responding to Trump’s criticism, European Commission spokesperson Paula Pinho defended EU leadership, saying the bloc remained united despite ongoing challenges—from Russia’s war in Ukraine to trade disputes with Washington.

“We are very pleased and grateful to have excellent leaders,” Pinho told reporters. “They are leading the EU through all the challenges it is facing… showing that they can be united.”

Ukraine Elections, Orban Funding Request

Trump also repeated his view that Ukraine should hold national elections as the war approaches its four-year mark. Ukraine is expected to present Washington with a revised peace plan later on Tuesday following urgent discussions with European leaders.

When asked about reports that Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán sought US financial assistance during his recent White House visit, Trump denied offering any support. “No, I didn’t promise him, but he certainly asked for it,” he said.