US to Attack Drug Traffickers in Venezuela – NBC Report
US Accuses Maduro Government of Ties to “Los Soles” Drug Cartel
Table of Contents
Updated September 27, 2023 at 01:54 AM PDT
Background: US Allegations and Venezuelan Response
The United States government has accused the governance of venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro of collaborating with “los Soles,” a drug cartel about which limited public details exists. Washington alleges that Los Soles is responsible for shipping significant quantities of narcotics to the United States. Venezuela, in turn, views the increased US military presence in the Caribbean as a pressure tactic aimed at destabilizing the Chavismo political movement and removing Maduro from power.
Escalating Tensions and Military Buildup
Sources speaking to NBC News indicated that the recent increase in US military activity in the Caribbean is, in part, a response to the belief that Maduro is not adequately addressing drug trafficking originating from Venezuela.The US government, according to these sources, believes Maduro is not doing enough to curb the flow of drugs.
Diplomatic Overtures and Trump’s Response
Recently, Maduro sent a letter to US President Donald Trump requesting a resumption of dialog with Richard Grenell, the US special envoy for Venezuela. Maduro also requested the removal of Secretary of State Marco Rubio from any future negotiations,characterizing Rubio as a detrimental influence on US-Venezuela relations. Trump reportedly downplayed the meaning of the letter, and when questioned about the possibility of military strikes within Venezuelan territory, he responded cryptically with “well, they will discover it.”
The Enigma of “Los Soles”
Despite the serious allegations, very little verifiable information is publicly available about the “Los Soles” cartel. Its structure, leadership, and operational methods remain largely unknown. This lack of transparency raises questions about the basis for the US government’s claims and the extent of its evidence. Further inquiry is needed to determine the cartel’s true nature and its connections, if any, to the Maduro government.