In an apparent escalation of tensions with Venezuela, the United States said that it would label the Cartel de los Soles, believed by the Trump administration to be headed by Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, a Foreign Terrorist Organization. Some believe that this designation helps the legal case for strikes by the United States inside Venezuela. Others, however, such as CERL Advisory Council member Mary Ellen O’Connell believe that this designation does not change anything under international law. 

Mary Ellen O’Connell is the Robert and Marion Short Professor of Law and Research Professor of International Dispute Resolution—Kroc Institute for International Peace Studies, University of Notre Dame. Read her bio here.  

The views expressed here are the author’s own and do not necessarily represent those of any organization or university.