US Secretary of State Marco Rubio had previously described Cartel de los Soles, also known as the “Suns Cartel,” as responsible for “terrorist violence” in the Western Hemisphere. The planned designation on Monday represents the latest step in the Trump administration’s ongoing campaign to combat drug trafficking affecting the US.

Trump Administration and Potential Military Action

The announcement comes amid discussions about possible US military action in Venezuela. Recent operations in the Caribbean, targeting drug-trafficking vessels, have resulted in the deaths of more than 80 individuals. While Trump has raised the possibility of dialogue with Maduro, military options remain under consideration.

Origins of the Cartel de los Soles

The term “Cartel de los Soles” emerged in the 1990s to describe high-ranking Venezuelan military officials enriching themselves through drug trafficking. Under Hugo Chávez and later Maduro, the term expanded to encompass police and government officials, as well as activities such as illegal mining and fuel smuggling. The “suns” refer to the insignia worn on senior military officers’ uniforms.

US Legal Definition and Context

In 2020, the US Department of Justice filed indictments against Maduro and his close associates for narco-terrorism and other crimes. This move elevated the term Cartel de los Soles to a broader classification for the Maduro-led drug trafficking network.

Adam Isaacson, Director of Defense Oversight at the Washington Office on Latin America, clarified:

This is not a group. It is not an organization that people can claim membership in. It does not hold regular meetings or have a hierarchy.