4. U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, “2025 National Drug Threat Assessment,” identifying Mexico and China as primary fentanyl sources.
5. U.S. Department of State, International Narcotics Control Strategy Report , noting Venezuela is not listed as a fentanyl source.
6. Agence France-Presse, “Funerals Without Remains in Coastal Venezuela,” documenting ceremonies held without recovered bodies.
7. U.S. Customs and Border Protection, “Fentanyl Seizure Data,” showing the overwhelming majority of fentanyl enters through land ports of entry.
8. Interview with Retired DEA Official, published in multiple U.S. outlets, describing maritime strikes as “theater” and strategically ineffective.