A dramatic shift in U.S. policy is unfolding as the Cartel de los Soles, a criminal network deeply entwined with Venezuela’s leadership, is set to be formally designated a Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO). This unprecedented move signals a significant escalation in Washington’s approach to the Maduro regime, potentially paving the way for more forceful intervention.
The designation, effective November 24th, directly targets Nicolás Maduro and key figures within his government. The State Department asserts the cartel has systematically corrupted Venezuela’s core institutions – its military, intelligence agencies, legislature, and judiciary – transforming them into instruments of illicit power.
This isn’t simply about drug trafficking, though that remains a critical component. The Cartel de los Soles is accused of actively coordinating with established terrorist organizations like Tren de Aragua and the Sinaloa Cartel, fueling violence throughout the hemisphere and flooding the United States and Europe with narcotics.
The legal basis for this action rests within Section 219 of the Immigration and Nationality Act, empowering the State Department to designate foreign entities demonstrably involved in terrorist activities. The formal announcement will appear in the Federal Register, solidifying the cartel’s status as a global threat.
This FTO designation builds upon existing sanctions imposed by the U.S. Treasury Department, which previously targeted the cartel under Executive Order 13224, aimed at disrupting terrorist financing and support networks. The new classification, however, carries far greater weight and implications.
The move opens the door for the U.S. government to directly target Maduro’s assets and infrastructure, potentially crippling the regime’s ability to operate and exert control. Discussions with Venezuelan leaders are reportedly underway, though the outcome remains uncertain.
The administration has made it clear that stemming the flow of drugs into the country is a paramount concern. This designation is a direct response to that commitment, signaling a zero-tolerance policy towards those responsible for facilitating the drug trade and associated violence.
The implications of this decision extend far beyond Venezuela’s borders. By labeling the Cartel de los Soles as a terrorist organization, the U.S. is sending a clear message to the international community: those who enable and profit from terrorism will face severe consequences.
