Tren de Aragua: A Growing Threat to National Security
Tren de Aragua (TdA) is classified as a Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) due to its significant criminal activities, including drug trafficking, extortion, and violent crimes like murder and kidnapping. With thousands of members, many have illegally entered the United States, posing a serious risk to public safety. These individuals are linked with the Cártel de los Soles, a Venezuelan narco-terrorism group operating under the Maduro regime. Together, they aim to undermine democracy in the Americas, especially targeting the United States.
During Tareck El Aissami’s tenure as governor of Aragua from 2012 to 2017, TdA expanded its reach and influence, which allowed its activities to flourish. In 2017, he was appointed Vice President of Venezuela but was later designated a Specially Designated Narcotics Trafficker by the U.S. Treasury Department—a label that underscores the serious concerns about his involvement in drug trafficking.
Nicolas Maduro, who claims to be the President of Venezuela, is also heavily implicated in these criminal actions. He is linked with the Cártel de los Soles, using illegal drugs as a strategy to destabilize the United States. The U.S. government charged him and others with narcoterrorism, revealing a broader plan to flood American streets with drugs.
The situation is alarming. Venezuelan authorities have increasingly lost control over their territories, ceding power to criminal organizations like TdA. This has led to the creation of a hybrid criminal state that threatens national security. According to INTERPOL Washington, "Tren de Aragua has emerged as a significant threat to the United States."
In February 2025, the U.S. Secretary of State officially designated TdA as a Foreign Terrorist Organization. This designation reaffirms the administration’s commitment to protecting citizens from such threats. As President, my duty is to ensure national security and public safety.
TdA’s infiltration of the U.S. is not just a concern for law enforcement; it affects the everyday lives of Americans. A recent study showed that communities report increased violence and anxiety linked to drug trafficking and gang-related activities. Many citizens express fear about the growing prevalence of these organizations, as a social media trend highlights the public’s concern for personal safety.
Consequently, this proclamation aims to outline specific regulations regarding individuals linked to TdA. Those 14 years or older affiliated with the organization who are in the U.S. and lack legal residency will be arrested and removed. This policy is essential since members of TdA are considered a danger to public peace and safety.
Moving forward, the Attorney General will work closely with law enforcement agencies to efficiently apprehend and remove individuals connected to TdA. Measures will be put in place to ensure that any property tied to criminal activities is seized.
In summary, the threat posed by Tren de Aragua is real and demands a robust response. By taking firm actions, we can help safeguard our communities and uphold the rule of law.
For further information, you can explore resources from the U.S. Department of the Treasury and reports from INTERPOL that provide deeper insights into this pressing issue.