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U.S. Considers Leaflet Campaign to Pressure Maduro Regime

Source: U.S. considers dropping leaflets in Venezuela as it ramps up pressure on Maduro, sources say (2025-11-24)

The United States is exploring the strategic use of leaflet drops over Caracas to intensify pressure on Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, according to sources familiar with the matter. This covert psychological operation aims to undermine Maduro’s authority by spreading messages that encourage dissent and highlight economic hardships. The move signals a shift toward unconventional tactics in U.S. foreign policy toward Venezuela, emphasizing psychological warfare alongside sanctions and diplomatic efforts. Recent developments reveal that the Biden administration is evaluating the effectiveness of such leafleting campaigns, which have historically been used in conflicts like the Cold War and recent regional crises. The potential deployment would be part of a broader strategy to support opposition groups and promote democratic reforms in Venezuela, which has faced ongoing economic collapse, hyperinflation, and political unrest. The U.S. has also increased covert support for opposition leaders and civil society organizations, aiming to foster a transition away from Maduro’s authoritarian rule. In addition to the leaflet strategy, the U.S. is considering other non-military measures, including cyber operations and targeted financial sanctions, to weaken Maduro’s grip on power. The move comes amid rising tensions in the region, with neighboring countries like Colombia and Brazil calling for increased international pressure on Caracas. The Biden administration’s approach reflects a nuanced understanding of Venezuela’s complex political landscape, emphasizing soft power tools to achieve strategic objectives. Recent facts that contextualize this development include: 1. Venezuela’s economy has shrunk by over 75% since 2013, leading to widespread poverty and migration. 2. The U.S. has imposed over 300 sanctions on Venezuelan officials and entities since 2017. 3. Venezuela holds the world’s largest proven oil reserves, yet its oil industry remains crippled by mismanagement and sanctions. 4. The Venezuelan opposition has gained international recognition, but Maduro retains control over key institutions. 5. The Biden administration has increased diplomatic engagement with regional allies to coordinate pressure on Caracas. 6. Psychological operations like leaflet drops have been used in conflicts such as the Cold War and recent Middle Eastern conflicts to influence public opinion. 7. The Venezuelan military’s loyalty remains divided, with some factions sympathetic to opposition efforts. 8. Humanitarian crises in Venezuela have led to over 7 million Venezuelans fleeing the country, creating regional instability. 9. The U.S. has supported efforts to hold free elections in Venezuela, though Maduro’s government has dismissed such initiatives. 10. Recent polls indicate a growing dissatisfaction among Venezuelans with Maduro’s leadership, especially amid economic hardship. As the U.S. considers deploying leaflets, experts emphasize the importance of integrating psychological operations within a comprehensive strategy that includes diplomatic, economic, and informational tools. Analysts warn that such measures must be carefully calibrated to avoid escalating tensions or provoking military responses. Meanwhile, regional partners are closely monitoring developments, with some advocating for increased humanitarian aid and dialogue to resolve Venezuela’s crisis peacefully. The coming months will be critical in determining whether these unconventional tactics will contribute to a potential shift in Venezuela’s political landscape or deepen regional instability.

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