US Moves to Designate Venezuela’s 'Cartel de los Soles' as Terror Group Amid Rising Military Pressure

The United States plans to designate the so-called "Cartel de los Soles" as a foreign terrorist organization (FTO), a move the administration says reflects links between the network and Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. The announcement comes as U.S. military assets have concentrated in the Caribbean Sea near Venezuela, raising tensions and prompting concerns that the designation could be used to justify expanded operations.

What is the "Cartel de los Soles"?

"Cartel de los Soles"—literally "Cartel of the Suns"—is a popular Venezuelan term that originated in the 1990s to describe senior military officers who profited from drug trafficking. Over time the label broadened to include police and government officials and to encompass activities such as illegal mining and fuel smuggling. The "suns" refer to the sun-shaped epaulettes that denote high rank in the Venezuelan armed forces.

U.S. authorities contend that the network functions like a criminal enterprise and have previously accused senior Venezuelan figures, including Maduro and his inner circle, of narcotrafficking and narcoterrorism in indictments filed in 2020.

Escalating Operations and Legal Implications

Officials say the FTO designation could create new legal tools for targeting finances and travel, and some analysts warn it may also be cited to justify more robust covert or overt operations. Unnamed U.S. officials have indicated that a new phase of operations could begin soon and that options under consideration include covert actions and pressure designed to remove Maduro from power.

United Nations officials and international law scholars have criticized prior strikes in the region — reportedly more than 80 people killed in actions against vessels accused of drug trafficking — arguing those operations may violate U.S. and international law and could amount to extrajudicial killings.

Venezuela’s president, who has led the country since 2013, asserts that the U.S. seeks to oust him and has said that Venezuelans and the military would resist any foreign attempt at regime change. Meanwhile, the buildup of military assets and the announcement of a possible FTO listing have intensified diplomatic and economic pressure on Caracas.

Immediate Effects

Heightened tensions have had tangible effects on travel and commerce: several international carriers suspended flights to Venezuela after aviation authorities warned of risks associated with increased military activity. Airlines that paused service include major regional and international carriers, and some cancellations were announced for a limited period as airlines reassessed safety conditions.

The situation remains fluid. U.S. officials have not confirmed the final timing or full scope of the designation and any related operations, and Venezuelan and international reactions are likely to shape next steps.