Bangladesh, Nov. 25 -- The United States decision to designate the so-called Cartel of the Suns as a foreign terrorist organization has reignited debates over Washingtons long and often controversial approach to Venezuela. The move, announced on November 20, places the alleged Venezuelan network in the same category as internationally recognized extremist groups such as Al-Qaeda and Islamic State. It also marks a dramatic escalation in US policy toward the government of President Nicolás Maduro-whose legitimacy Washington has disputed for years-and raises concerns among regional leaders about the potential for further destabilization.

For Washington, the designation is a continuation of its longstanding claim that senior Venezuelan ...