Pentagon Signals New Venezuela Options as Terror Listing Nears

Overview

• Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said designating the Cartel de los Soles as a terrorist group "opens a series of new options" for U.S. action.
• The U.S. listing, slated to take effect on November 24, links elements of the Maduro state to organized crime and could broaden legal authorities for strikes and sanctions.
• A large U.S. maritime and air presence continues in the Caribbean with the USS Gerald R. Ford, and forces have conducted at least 21 attacks on suspected drug boats, leaving more than 80 dead as rights groups question the operations’ legality.
• The White House authorized the CIA to run covert activities inside Venezuela, The New York Times reported, while Trump has not approved a ground invasion.
• Informal contacts continue as the Times reported Maduro floated resigning after a two‑to‑three‑year transition, a proposal the White House rejected, while Caracas mobilizes militias and indigenous brigades train with curare‑tipped arrows.