Nicolás Maduro urged Donald Trump to avoid a “crazy war” as U.S. military actions against alleged drug traffickers raised tensions.

Trump said he had authorised covert CIA action, denied sending B-1 bombers, and insisted the U.S. might not seek a formal declaration of war while vowing to target those bringing drugs.

Since September 2, U.S. strikes have hit several boats and a semi-submersible, killing at least 37 people, though Washington has not publicly produced evidence the vessels were carrying drugs.

Maduro responded by showcasing Venezuela’s defenses—claiming some 5,000 Russian Igla-S anti-aircraft missiles and conducting coastal exercises—while accusing the U.S. of seeking regime change, the Daily Mail has reported.

Regional alarm grew after Trinidad and Tobago announced a U.S. warship visit and joint drills, and legal experts questioned the legality of using lethal force against suspects who were not intercepted or questioned.