Historical Context and Background
In 1971, President Richard Nixon declared the war on drugs for the first time. Half a century later, history seems to repeat itself with new drugs, evolving scenarios, and the second oldest and most corrupt dictatorship in the Americas.
President Trump’s Announcement
President Trump stated that the war on drugs is entering its second phase.
Significant changes are expected: from anonymous drug lords to key targets, from small boats to the heart of cartels, from distant attacks to ground incursions.
US Military Deployment and Actions
After a month of military deployment, including destroyers, nuclear submarines, amphibious ships, drones, F-35s, and a $50 million reward, the Venezuelan dictatorship remains shaken but not broken.
US Policy on Narco-Terrorism
The US is determined to eliminate narco-terrorism, not through words but through action. The Trump administration has notified Congress of a formal conflict against drug cartels and will take all necessary measures to counter the threat to national security.
No Negotiation with Terrorists
Pete Hegseth, Chief of the Pentagon, stated that the new War Department is now on the offensive, not defensive. They aim to capture and eliminate those who traffic drugs rather than waiting for drugs to reach their country.
Maduro’s Misinformation
Radical intellectuals and major oil companies claim Maduro is not a terrorist, the Solar Cartel does not exist, and fighting narco-trafficking is a war crime. Essentially, they want the US to return to being a passive observer without teeth or claws.
Failed Dialogue with Dictators
For years, Maduro has dialogued with lies in Norway, Barbados, Lima, and even at the OAS. The current administration has decided to ignore Maduro’s letters and lay their cards on the table.
Financial Pressure on Chavista Army
Total control of drug trafficking in the Caribbean Sea is severely impacting the Solar Cartel’s income.
The army’s loyalty is crumbling, and even Cuban advisors cannot prevent the inevitable.
America First: Prioritizing the Americas
President Trump has prioritized Latin America over Europe, Asia, or the Middle East. He believes a free Western Hemisphere is essential for a free world.
Global powers cannot and should not relinquish their regional leadership. The US appears determined to ensure a narco-terrorism-free territory.
It seems we are witnessing a new American doctrine rather than an isolated action.
Critical Next 90 Days
The next 90 days are crucial to break the criminal structures of narco-trafficking in Venezuela. The list of targets may already be defined, and actions scheduled.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the significance of the US escalating its war against Venezuela’s drug dictatorship? The US aims to eliminate narco-terrorism, not through words but through decisive action.
- Why is the US targeting the Solar Cartel? The Solar Cartel’s income is being severely impacted by the US’s total control of drug trafficking in the Caribbean Sea.
- How is the US addressing failed dialogues with dictators? The current administration has decided to ignore dictators’ letters and take a more assertive stance.
- What is the significance of President Trump’s prioritization of Latin America? He believes a free Western Hemisphere is essential for a free world.