Caracas vehemently denounced a recent U.S. action, dismissing the designation of an alleged drug cartel as a “ridiculous lie” as American military strength surged in Caribbean waters. The Venezuelan Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a strong statement, directly challenging the claims made by U.S. officials and framing the move as a pretext for intervention.
Washington officially labeled the “Cartel de los Soles” (Cartel of the Suns) a foreign terrorist organization, a decision that immediately unlocks new avenues for U.S. pressure against Venezuela’s government. This designation arrives amidst escalating tensions and a growing sense of unease within the South American nation.
The U.S. administration alleges that this shadowy group is directly controlled by President Nicolas Maduro, yet no concrete evidence supporting this accusation has been publicly revealed. This lack of transparency fuels skepticism and intensifies the feeling that political motivations are at play.
This action is presented as part of a broader U.S. campaign targeting drugs and illegal immigration originating in Latin America. However, Caracas views the increased military presence with deep suspicion, fearing a coordinated effort to destabilize and ultimately overthrow Maduro’s leadership.
A formidable U.S. naval force, including the world’s largest aircraft carrier, now dominates the Caribbean Sea. Since September, U.S. forces have reportedly engaged in numerous incidents, resulting in at least 83 deaths in confrontations with boats suspected of drug trafficking in international waters.
Critically, no evidence confirming the presence of drugs on these vessels has been released, raising serious questions about the justification for these lethal encounters. The lack of transparency surrounding these events is fueling international concern and legal debate.
The terrorist designation provides a legal framework for increased pressure on Venezuelan authorities, effectively broadening the scope of potential U.S. actions. Officials warn this could escalate the already volatile situation in the region.
U.S. officials claim the Cartel of the Suns is responsible for widespread “terrorist violence” throughout the hemisphere. This assertion, however, remains unsubstantiated and is met with strong resistance from Venezuela, which views it as a fabricated justification for aggression.
While the Trump administration has remained ambiguous about its ultimate goals in Venezuela, the massive military buildup and the escalating incidents at sea have created a climate of fear and uncertainty. Concerns are growing, even within Washington, that U.S. military actions may be exceeding legal boundaries.
The deteriorating security situation has already had tangible consequences, with six airlines recently cancelling flights to Venezuela due to safety concerns. This disruption further isolates the nation and exacerbates the existing humanitarian challenges.
The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration has issued a warning to civilian aircraft operating in Venezuelan airspace, advising them to “exercise caution” due to the “worsening security situation and heightened military activity.” This advisory underscores the gravity of the situation and the potential for miscalculation.
