What is Cartel de los Soles, which the US is labelling as a terrorist organisation?
In a recent development concerning the political landscape of Venezuela, the United States has publicly stated that the country is under the leadership of President Nicolás Maduro and other senior political figures. However, this assertion has been met with skepticism from various analysts and political experts, who argue that the Venezuelan government, as it currently stands, lacks legitimacy and, in some respects, may not even exist in the traditional sense of governance. This debate highlights the complexities of Venezuela’s political crisis, which has been exacerbated by economic turmoil, social unrest, and international sanctions.
The U.S. position reflects a broader geopolitical stance, as the Biden administration continues to navigate its foreign policy approach towards Latin America. Analysts point out that Maduro’s regime has been characterized by widespread allegations of human rights abuses, electoral fraud, and a significant decline in the standard of living for Venezuelans. This has led to a mass exodus of citizens seeking better opportunities abroad. The opposition, led by figures such as Juan Guaidó, once received considerable support from the U.S. and other nations, who recognized him as the legitimate interim president. However, as the situation evolves, there are growing concerns that the opposition has fragmented, diminishing its effectiveness in challenging Maduro’s hold on power.
Furthermore, the notion that the Venezuelan government may not “exist” in a conventional sense raises critical questions about sovereignty and governance. Some analysts suggest that the Maduro administration operates more like a shadow state, relying heavily on military support and external allies, including Russia and China, to maintain its grip on power. This situation creates a paradox where the government functions but is widely regarded as illegitimate both domestically and internationally. As Venezuela continues to grapple with these challenges, the international community remains divided on how best to address the crisis, with some advocating for diplomatic engagement while others call for increased sanctions and pressure on the Maduro regime. The future of Venezuela remains uncertain, with its political landscape in a state of flux and the potential for further unrest.
The US says it is headed by Venezuela’s president and other senior politicians, but some analysts say it does not even exist.
