Here’s what Americans need to know.
President Donald Trump has called an urgent national security meeting at the White House as tensions continue to rise in Venezuela and across the Caribbean. According to Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, the president will meet with his top security advisers in the Oval Office on Monday to review the rapidly changing situation. While she declined to discuss classified details, she confirmed the issue demands immediate attention from the administration.
Leavitt emphasized that President Trump is reviewing “many options” to protect American interests in the region. When asked if U.S. troops could be deployed to the ground in Venezuela, she did not rule it out—highlighting the seriousness of the moment and the administration’s focus on strengthening national security.
Top Trump Officials Called Into the Oval Office
The emergency Oval Office meeting is expected to include some of the president’s highest-ranking officials:
- Secretary of State Marco Rubio
- Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth
- White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles
Their presence signals that the administration is preparing for potentially significant decisions involving stability in the Western Hemisphere, U.S. military readiness, and ongoing threats at America’s doorstep.
U.S. Military Assets Positioned Near Venezuela
In recent weeks, the United States has carried out a major buildup of military force around Venezuela. The Pentagon has deployed the USS Gerald R. Ford, the world’s largest aircraft carrier, along with its powerful carrier air wing, into the Caribbean. Two B-1 Lancer bombers also flew from Texas toward the Venezuelan coastline in a show of strength aimed at deterring hostile actions.
At the same time, U.S. forces have intensified operations targeting drug-smuggling networks that have used the region for years. Several strikes have disrupted illegal trafficking routes and removed dangerous cartel-linked threats. Some of these missions have drawn media scrutiny, particularly regarding allegations about orders given during a maritime operation—claims the White House says are being distorted for political purposes.
Trump Speaks Directly With Venezuelan Leader
President Trump confirmed that he spoke with Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro by phone on Sunday. He described the conversation simply as, “It was a phone call,” offering no additional details. The brief comment suggests a cautious approach as the situation unfolds.
The administration is also responding to a Washington Post story claiming Defense Secretary Hegseth told the military to “kill everybody” during an operation. White House officials have rejected the report as misleading, noting that U.S. forces operate under strict rules of engagement designed to protect American personnel and uphold international standards.
A High-Stakes Moment for U.S. Leadership
This emergency meeting marks a critical moment for America’s national security strategy under President Trump. With instability spreading in Venezuela, dangerous cartel activity increasing, and foreign actors testing U.S. resolve, the administration is preparing decisive steps to restore stability and protect American citizens.
As the president’s national security team gathers in the Oval Office, the message is clear:
The United States will defend its interests—firmly, clearly, and without hesitation.
