U. S. Takes Aim at Venezuelan Cartel, Raises Stakes

The U. S. has taken a bold step by labeling a group linked to Venezuela's president as a terrorist organization. This move opens up new possibilities for the Pentagon, according to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. The group in question, Cartel de los Soles, is accused of working with another gang, Tren de Aragua, to smuggle drugs into the U. S. Hegseth didn't hold back, calling Maduro a puppet leader and repeating claims that he's involved in drug trafficking. Maduro, of course, denies everything. The U. S. has been piling on the pressure, with a massive military presence in the region and a hefty reward for Maduro's capture. But it's not all smooth sailing. Human rights groups are crying foul, saying the U. S. strikes on suspected drug boats are killing innocent people. And some allies are worried the U. S. is overstepping its bounds. Maduro, meanwhile, is convinced the U. S. is out to get him. The U. S. is playing a dangerous game, mixing military might with accusations of drug trafficking. It's a high-stakes situation, with the U. S. and Venezuela locked in a tense standoff. One thing's for sure: this isn't over yet.