U.S. Targets Venezuelan Cartel as Terrorist Organization

U.S. Labels Cartel de los Soles a Terrorist Group Amid Venezuela Pressure

The Trump administration has labelled the Cartel de los Soles as a foreign terrorist organisation, marking a shift in policy. Until now, such designations were only given to groups like the Islamic State or al-Qaida. The move comes as the U.S. steps up military pressure on Venezuela, including airstrikes and a naval buildup.

Gen. Dan Caine, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, is currently touring the Caribbean to meet with regional leaders and American troops. His visit follows recent U.S. military actions aimed at increasing pressure on Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro.

The U.S. has been conducting airstrikes on alleged drug-smuggling boats in the region. Over 80 people have been killed across 21 vessels. The Trump administration claims these boats are operated by designated groups but has not provided evidence or named the organisations involved.

The designation of Cartel de los Soles—described as a corrupt network rather than a traditional cartel—gives the U.S. new legal tools to target its operations. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stated that this move would open up additional options for dealing with Maduro’s government, though he did not specify what those options would be.

Gen. Caine’s trip includes stops in Puerto Rico and aboard a Navy warship, where he will meet with service members. He is accompanied by David L. Isom, his senior enlisted adviser, to discuss ongoing missions. When asked about potential strikes on land targets inside Venezuela, Hegseth refused to comment.

The U.S. military presence in the region has grown significantly, now including its most advanced aircraft carrier. Analysts see the naval buildup and airstrikes as part of a broader strategy to force Maduro’s resignation.

The designation of Cartel de los Soles expands the U.S. government’s authority to take action against groups linked to Venezuela. Military operations, including airstrikes and naval patrols, continue to escalate. The Trump administration has not yet outlined further steps but maintains pressure on Maduro’s regime.