U.S.Military Demonstrates Force Near Venezuela as Maduro Faces New Terrorist Designation
WASHINGTON – The United States has increased pressure on Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro’s government through a combination of military signaling and a controversial designation of a key venezuelan association as a Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO). The moves come amid a backdrop of stalled negotiations and escalating U.S. concern over illicit activities linked to the maduro regime.
On November 21, 2025, U.S. military assets, including at least six aircraft, were deployed off the Venezuelan coast for several hours. Aircraft involved in the exhibition of force included a F/A-18E supersonic fighter aircraft, a B-52 strategic bomber, and an RC-135 Rivet joint reconnaissance aircraft. The U.S. Air Force Southern Command characterized the operation as a “bomber strike demonstration” intended to deter illicit trafficking. The F/A-18E operated from the USS Gerald Ford aircraft carrier, which arrived in the Caribbean earlier in the week.
Simultaneously, the Trump governance formally designated the “cartel of the Suns” - a network allegedly controlled by high-ranking Venezuelan military officials – as a Foreign Terrorist Organization. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth stated this designation would give the Department of Defense “more tools to offer options to the president.” While legal experts acknowledge the designation does not automatically authorize the use of deadly force, it does empower President Trump to impose additional sanctions. The White House formally notified Congress of the FTO application on November 16.
Despite the heightened military posture and punitive measures, President Trump indicated a willingness to engage in direct dialog with Maduro. In a statement to Fox News, Trump said he would speak with the Venezuelan leader “in the not-too-distant future,” adding, “I can’t tell you what I’m going to say to him, but i have something very specific what to tell him.”
Previous attempts at negotiation, led by special envoy Ric Grenell, were halted by the White House last month as the military presence in the region increased. Currently, no othre country has been formally requested to mediate between Washington and Caracas, following the Biden administration’s previous use of Qatar as a facilitator.
