Department of State pledges to rid hemisphere of narco-terrorism, reinforces pressure on Maduro

On Saturday, the Department of State raised its message against criminal networks in Latin America with the release of a video in which it reaffirms its commitment to combat narcoterrorism in the Western Hemisphere.

"The Trump Administration will degrade, dismantle, and eliminate foreign terrorist organizations. We will free the Western Hemisphere from the grip of narco-terrorists," the official message stressed.

The material highlights the reward notice for Nicolás Maduro, accused by Washington of leading the Cártel de los Soles and of using Venezuela as a platform for drug trafficking to the United States. The offer amounts to $50 million, the highest figure ever set for a drug lord.

Narcoterrorism as a regional threat

The communiqué warns that these organizations resort to extreme violence and maintain drug and arms trafficking networks that destabilize the region. So far, 13 of them have been designated as terrorist organizations.

The statement notes that, under the leadership of President Donald Trump, measures have been implemented to protect U.S. citizens and support neighboring countries in this fight. He also urges regional cooperation to stem the flow of drugs, weapons and illegal immigration.

A scenario of growing tension

Although specific operations were not detailed, reports by NBC News indicate that U.S. officials are evaluating military actions that could be activated within weeks, including the use of drones against laboratories and criminal leaders in Venezuela.