Bangladesh, Nov. 17 -- The latest move by the United States to label the so-called Venezuelan Cartel de los Soles as a terrorist organization marks a dramatic escalation in Washingtons confrontation with Caracas. Framed by President Donald Trump and the State Department as an effort to counter narcoterrorism, the designation-set to take effect on November 24-signals far more than a symbolic tightening of diplomatic pressure. It introduces a new legal framework that could pave the way for unprecedented military or economic measures against the government of President Nicolás Maduro, whom Washington continues to call “illegitimate.”

For years, US administrations have wielded sanctions, indictments, and political isolation ...