Blow to drug cartels in Venezuela: Secret runway destroyed

A new step has been taken in Venezuela's operations targeting international drug trafficking. The Bolivarian National Police (PNB) announced the destruction of a secret airstrip allegedly serving drug cartels during an operation in the rural area of ​​Falcon State. The approximately 500-meter-long runway was reportedly used for aircraft takeoff and landing.

In its statement, PNB emphasized that operations against cartels in the region "will continue with determination."

Military presence strengthened in the Caribbean

Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino Lopez told state television that the military presence would be increased on the Caribbean and Atlantic fronts. Lopez explained that the action was taken at the behest of President Nicolas Maduro, adding, “No one will come to do this job for us. We will ensure security in these lands.”

Lopez also recalled that operations against drug cartels continue in the state of Apure, on the border with Colombia.

Tensions with the US are escalating

Venezuelan Vice President Delcy Rodriguez, citing the US military presence in the Caribbean, said threats against the country continue. "It is impossible to stop the production process in Venezuela," Rodriguez said.

The Washington administration, meanwhile, has decided to increase its military presence in Latin America against drug cartels. The US Treasury Department designated the Cartel de los Soles, to which Maduro is alleged to have ties, as a "global terrorist organization" and increased the reward for his capture to $50 million.

Last month, seven warships and a submarine were sent to the coast of Venezuela on the orders of US President Donald Trump.