Rubio’s Strong Condemnation of Maduro

On Sunday, Secretary of State Marco Rubio launched a scathing critique of Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro, labeling him a “narco-terrorist” and accusing him of threatening U.S. security. This denunciation comes as Venezuela conducts municipal elections to appoint numerous mayors and council members. These elections occur just before the one-year anniversary of the controversial presidential election, which the United States and other international observers have widely condemned as illegitimate.

U.S. Pressure on Maduro Intensifies

The Trump administration has been ramping up its efforts to pressure Maduro, with Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent accusing him of leading an organization that supports terrorism against the United States. Rubio emphasized that Maduro is not recognized as Venezuela’s legitimate president and criticized his regime for undermining democratic processes. The U.S. remains committed to supporting Venezuela’s return to democratic governance.

Allegations of Narco-Terrorism

Rubio further accused Maduro of heading the Cartel de Los Soles, a designated narco-terrorist organization involved in drug trafficking to the U.S. and Europe. In March 2020, the Justice Department charged Maduro and several Venezuelan officials with crimes including narco-terrorism and corruption. The State Department has increased its reward for information leading to Maduro’s capture, highlighting the seriousness of these allegations.

Manipulation of Electoral Processes

According to Rubio, Maduro’s regime has consistently manipulated Venezuela’s electoral system to maintain power illegitimately. By scheduling municipal elections near the anniversary of the disputed presidential election, Rubio argues that Maduro aims to suppress opposition through military and police force.

International Sanctions and Accusations

The U.S. Treasury Department recently sanctioned the Cartel de los Soles as a “Specially Designated Global Terrorist,” alleging that it aids in trafficking narcotics into the U.S. The cartel is accused of collaborating with other terrorist organizations like Tren de Aragua and the Sinaloa Cartel. The Trump administration continues to target these groups as part of its broader strategy to combat narco-terrorism.