The Trump administration designated Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro as a member of a foreign terrorist organization.

The Trump administration has officially announced that the president of Venezuela, Nicolas Maduro, and his government allies are considered members of a foreign terrorist organization. This designation, one of the most severe anti-terrorism measures by the State Department, will allow the U.S. to have extensive military options in Venezuela. The term 'Cartel de los Soles' is used to describe a network of groups within the Venezuelan armed forces involved in drug trafficking, although Maduro has denied any personal involvement.

In the context of this designation, the U.S. military has mobilized warships and 15,000 soldiers in the region, part of 'Operation Southern Spear'. Although Trump has been informed about options for action, including attacks on government facilities, there is significant public opposition to military intervention, with 70% of Americans opposing such action. Officials emphasize that the main goal is to reduce illegal flows of migrants and drugs, but regime change could be a secondary effect.