Dominican Republic Classifies Maduro’s Cartel as Terrorist Group

The Dominican Republic has officially designated Nicolás Maduro’s Cartel of the Suns as an international terrorist organization, a significant move announced on Thursday, September 4, 2025. This classification marks a pivotal shift in the Caribbean nation’s approach to regional security and drug trafficking.

The government of the Dominican Republic cited the cartel"s extensive involvement in drug trafficking, violence, and its detrimental impact on national and regional stability. This designation enables the Dominican authorities to pursue legal actions and enhance cooperation with international partners to combat the cartel"s activities.

The Cartel of the Suns, which is linked to the Venezuelan government, has been under scrutiny for its role in facilitating drug trafficking routes across Latin America and into the United States. This move aligns with recent developments in international efforts to curb the influence of drug cartels in the region and follows earlier coverage of the U.S. Coast Guard"s actions against drug vessels off the Venezuelan coast.

Experts suggest that this designation could lead to increased diplomatic and military collaboration between the Dominican Republic and other nations affected by the cartel"s operations. The implications of this decision may resonate throughout the Caribbean, as countries seek to strengthen their security measures against organized crime.