U.S. State Department designates Cartel de los Soles as terrorist group

On November 16, 2025, the U.S. State Department officially designated the Cartel de los Soles as a Foreign Terrorist Organization. This designation was made in conjunction with the assertion that the group is "headed up by the illegitimate Nicolas Maduro."

The Cartel de los Soles is linked to various illicit activities in Venezuela, and this designation marks a significant step in U.S. efforts to address the influence of Maduro"s regime and its connections to organized crime. The U.S. government has previously expressed concerns regarding the activities of the Cartel de los Soles and its impact on regional stability.

This announcement comes amid ongoing tensions in the region, with the U.S. increasing its military presence in the Caribbean as part of broader efforts to counteract threats from Venezuela. For more on related coverage, see our article on recent developments regarding U.S. military operations in the area.

The designation of the Cartel de los Soles as a terrorist organization underscores the U.S. government"s commitment to combating drug trafficking and terrorism linked to foreign entities. Further details on the implications of this designation are expected to unfold in the coming days.