Venezuela calls US terrorist designation of alleged drug cartel a ‘ridiculous lie’ aimed at justifying military intervention amid regional tensions
CARACAS: Venezuela has rejected the United States’ terrorist designation of an alleged drug cartel on its territory as a “ridiculous lie” aimed at justifying military intervention.
The Venezuelan foreign ministry dismissed what it called “the new and ridiculous lie from Secretary of State Marco Rubio” intended “to justify an illegitimate and illegal intervention against Venezuela.”
Washington designated the alleged “Cartel de los Soles” (Cartel of the Suns) as a foreign terrorist organization on Monday.
The Trump administration claims the cartel is a drug trafficking syndicate run by Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and has issued a $50 million reward for his capture.
Venezuela and its supporting countries insist no such organization exists.
Several Venezuela experts say Washington’s cartel designation refers to corruption of senior officials by criminal gangs.
The designation comes amid a major US military buildup near Venezuela that has sparked speculation about potential action against Maduro.
US forces have killed at least 83 people in strikes on boats accused of ferrying drugs from Latin America since September.
No public evidence has shown drugs were on board the targeted vessels.
The terrorism designation provides Washington legal cover for increased pressure on Venezuelan authorities.
On Tuesday, the top US military officer Dan Caine will visit Trinidad and Tobago, a US ally situated near Venezuela.
The US embassy said the joint chiefs chairman’s visit would focus on “countering illicit trafficking and transnational criminal organizations.”
Six airlines announced flight cancellations to Venezuela on Saturday due to safety concerns.
The US Federal Aviation Administration urged civilian aircraft in Venezuelan airspace to “exercise caution” due to worsening security and heightened military activity. – AFP
