Alleged Venezuelan Cartel Rises to Top of US Terror List
Recent developments have placed the Cartel De Los Soles, also known as the “Cartel of the Suns,” at the forefront of U.S. foreign policy. The cartel has been designated as a Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) by the United States, a move that has sparked significant controversy and raised questions about its actual existence.
US Foreign Terrorist Organization Designation
The U.S. government claims that the Cartel De Los Soles is controlled by high-ranking Venezuelan officials. However, some analysts argue that the cartel may not even exist, suggesting that this narrative serves a larger agenda. In fact, the organization was notably absent from the U.S.’s major drug report published in January 2025.
Claims of Narcoterrorism
The U.S. has been vocal about its efforts to combat “narcoterrorists.” Since September, at least 82 lives have been claimed by airstrikes conducted by the U.S. military, yet evidence justifying such actions remains limited. Some military judges have expressed concerns about the legality of these operations, indicating a thin legal basis for them.
- 82 lives lost in U.S. air strikes since September
- Lack of evidence for the operations’ justification
Criticism of U.S. Strategy
Critics argue that labeling the cartel as an FTO is a strategic move aimed at facilitating regime change in Venezuela. This aligns with the objectives of the Southern Spear operation, which some view as an escalated campaign combining military action with economic pressure.
The FTO designation groups the cartel alongside notorious organizations like ISIS and Al Qaeda. Despite the focus on cartel activities, discussions have sometimes shifted to drugs like fentanyl, a synthetic opioid not primarily produced in Venezuela.
Military Movements and Covert Operations
In response to rising tensions, the U.S. has increased its military presence in the Caribbean. On November 22, officials indicated plans for covert operations, including potential leaflet drops targeting Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro on his birthday, November 23. However, these plans did not materialize, and the overall military buildup has drawn scrutiny.
- US military positioned near Venezuela’s coast
- Plans for leaflet drops on November 23 canceled
Recent Actions and International Relations
On November 21, the U.S. issued a NOTAM (Notice to Airmen) covering significant portions of Venezuelan airspace due to heightened military operations. This advisory led to the cancellation of flights and hinted at possible airstrikes that ultimately did not occur.
Despite calls for dialogue from Maduro, the U.S. military buildup raises concerns about a possible military confrontation. President Maduro has emphasized the need for peace, urging U.S. citizens to advocate against war.
The Broader Context
The situation in Venezuela is complex. With a population exceeding 28 million, the country has faced extensive U.S. interventions aimed at regime change over the past 25 years. Historical precedents indicate that such interventions often lead to prolonged conflicts, leaving deep societal scars.
As military tensions rise, it remains critical to consider the implications of U.S. policies on the Venezuelan population. History suggests that military solutions may exacerbate existing crises rather than resolve them.
