Part 5/13:
This operation signifies a broader shift in American policy, especially following the January executive order classifying Latin American drug cartels as foreign terrorist organizations. By February, TDA was officially labeled a terrorist group, granting the Pentagon new authorities to target these organizations with military force. The U.S. Treasury has also sanctioned entities like the cartel de la Sours, allegedly linked to President Nicolás Maduro and his military officials, for facilitating cocaine shipments.