At a recent press conference, U.S. Secretary of State Rubio (R) addressed questions on whether U.S. forces will be involved in operations against drug traffickers and trafficking networks in the Western Hemisphere.
Rubio confirmed that certain designated narco-terrorist groups operating in the region, some using international airspace and waters to move illicit drugs into the United States, will be “confronted.” He noted that the President has made clear the U.S will act against such organizations when they pose a threat to national security.
The discussion included specific mention of the Cartel de los Soles, which Rubio described as “a criminal organization that happens to masquerade as a government.”
He stated that the Maduro regime in Venezuela is “not a legitimate government” and emphasized that the U.S. has never recognized it as such.
According to Rubio, the group operates as a criminal enterprise that has seized control of the country and is also “threatening U.S. oil companies operating lawfully in Guyana.”
Rubio reiterated the administration’s position that the U.S. will respond firmly to any organization or regime posing a national security risk.
“Anything that is a threat to the national security, he’s going to confront,” he said, referring to the President’s approach.
The comments reflect the Trump administration’s broader commitment to countering transnational criminal networks in the region, particularly those involved in trafficking narcotics into the U.S. This includes cooperation with regional partners, use of intelligence and surveillance to track trafficking routes, and potential direct action when necessary.
Rubio’s remarks also underscored the U.S. government’s longstanding rejection of Nicolás Maduro’s claim to power in Venezuela, framing the country’s leadership as part of a wider network of organized crime in the hemisphere.
The statement signals a continues U.S. commitment to counter-narcotics operations abroad. Officials disclosed no specific operational details.
