Venezuelan Official Threatens U.S. Retaliation Following Terror Designation of ’Cartel of the Suns‘
CARACAS – Diosdado Cabello, a prominent figure in Venezuela’s ruling socialist party, issued a stark warning to the United States, vowing the country would be “annihilated” in response to Washington’s recent designation of the “Cartel of the Suns” – a group of high-ranking Venezuelan military officials allegedly involved in drug trafficking - as a foreign terrorist organization. Cabello also sharply criticized U.S. Senator Marco Rubio, labeling him a “clown” and accusing the United States of exploiting the situation for propaganda purposes.
The escalating tensions follow a move by the U.S. government to formally recognise the “Cartel of the Suns” as a significant threat, leveling sanctions and possibly opening the door for further legal action against individuals linked to the organization. This designation, and Cabello’s fiery response, underscores the deepening rift between venezuela and the U.S., a relationship already strained by political and economic crises.The situation raises concerns about potential further escalation and the impact on regional stability.
Cabello drew parallels between the current narrative surrounding the “Cartel of the Suns” and the pre-invasion claims of “weapons of mass destruction” used to justify the 2003 invasion of Iraq, suggesting the U.S. is fabricating a pretext for intervention. He leveled the threat of annihilation directly at the U.S., signaling a willingness to retaliate against perceived aggression.
Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro echoed Cabello’s defiant stance, asserting that “Whatever they do, they will not be able to defeat Venezuela,” and proclaiming the nation “invincible” in the face of escalating pressure from Washington. Maduro denounced what he characterized as “threats, psychological, political (and) diplomatic wars” waged by the U.S.
The designation of the “Cartel of the Suns” marks a significant escalation in U.S. efforts to target alleged corruption and illicit activities within the Venezuelan government. The group is accused of controlling significant portions of Venezuela’s cocaine trade and using its profits to maintain power and influence.The U.S. State Department has offered rewards for facts leading to the arrest of key figures within the cartel.
