Скачать или смотреть U.S. Labels Venezuela’s Cartel de los Soles a Foreign Terrorist Organization, Pressure on Maduro

The United States formally designated Venezuela’s Cartel de los Soles as a foreign terrorist organization, expanding sanctions on a network Washington says involves President Nicolas Maduro and senior officials. Venezuela’s government dismissed the move as a “ridiculous” fabrication meant to justify intervention, while Oil Minister Delcy Rodriguez accused the U.S. of seeking control of the nation’s vast natural resources. The designation follows months of U.S. military strikes on suspected drug-trafficking boats off Venezuela’s coast and comes as Washington prepares a new phase of operations. Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth said the FTO label offers “new options,” though experts note it does not authorize military action. U.S. officials also link the cartel to the gang Tren de Aragua, already designated an FTO. Despite denials from Caracas, analysts say elements of Venezuela’s military and political leadership profit from drug trafficking, even if Maduro’s direct role remains unproven. As pressure rises, Venezuela’s defaulted bonds jumped, becoming this year’s top performer among emerging markets. The move also heightens legal risks for anyone providing support to the group under Washington’s strictest terrorism classification.
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