The Spanish parliamentary group Vox has urged the European Union to halt its diplomatic relations agreement with Cuba due to the island's backing of the Maduro regime. Additionally, Vox has demanded that the Spanish government add the Cartel of the Suns, led by Maduro, to the list of terrorist organizations, according to local reports.
During a motion presented by the parliamentary group in the Spanish Senate, Vox Senator Ángel Pelayo described the Cartel of the Suns as a criminal organization closely linked to drug trafficking, extortion, kidnappings, disappearances, murders, and other severe forms of organized violence. They emphasized that it's a terrorist organization run by Nicolás Maduro and his accomplices in an illegal and coup-driven regime, bolstered by Cuba's communist dictatorship.
Vox's Argument for Suspending the EU-Cuba Agreement
Vox, led by Santiago Abascal, has called for the implementation of Article 85 of the Political Dialogue and Cooperation Agreement with Cuba, arguing that Cuba's support for Maduro violates "respect for democratic principles." They assert that Cuba's alliance with Maduro is incompatible with the agreement's basis on "respect and promotion of democratic principles," "respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms," and "adherence to the rule of law."
Consequences of Labeling the Cartel of the Suns as Terrorists
The designation of the Cartel of the Suns as a terrorist organization would result in freezing their funds and other financial assets. Moreover, it would ensure that no funds, financial assets, economic resources, or related services are made available to them, directly or indirectly. Additionally, it would enhance police and judicial cooperation among EU member states on criminal matters.
The Cartel of the Suns vs. Trump's Measures
The Cartel of the Suns, allegedly led by Maduro and other senior Chavista officials, has been classified as a terrorist group, with the United States offering a $50 million reward for their capture. In recent developments, the U.S. Department of Defense deployed 10 stealth F-35 fighter jets to Puerto Rico for "counter-narcotics" missions as part of the operation against the cartel.
This deployment is part of an operation ordered by Donald Trump to combat organizations deemed "narcoterrorists" by the White House. The presence of F-35 jets, designed for high-intensity operations, adds a new dimension to the existing regional deployment that includes destroyers, nuclear submarines, and amphibious squadrons.
Trump had authorized military forces to shoot down Venezuelan aircraft if they threaten U.S. ships in international Caribbean waters. This directive followed an incident involving two Venezuelan F-16 jets flying at low altitude over the USS Jason Dunham destroyer, an action the Pentagon described as "highly provocative."
In response, Maduro declared that Venezuela would enter a phase of "planned armed struggle" if attacked and called for the mobilization of millions of militiamen to defend the country.
FAQs about EU-Cuba Relations and Cartel of the Suns
What is the EU's Political Dialogue and Cooperation Agreement with Cuba?
The EU's Political Dialogue and Cooperation Agreement with Cuba is a treaty aimed at fostering dialogue and cooperation while promoting democratic principles, human rights, and the rule of law.
Why does Vox want the Cartel of the Suns listed as a terrorist organization?
Vox argues that the Cartel of the Suns is engaged in severe criminal activities such as drug trafficking and violence, and its inclusion as a terrorist organization would help curb its operations through financial and judicial measures.