The Listening Post Why isn’t US media busting the ‘narco-state’ myth? | The Listening Post
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Nov 29, 2025 The U.S. counter-narcotics mission off Venezuela is scrutinized for its dubious justification as a narrative for regime change. Venezuelans face intensifying repression, while mainstream media replicate this unproven narrative, echoing familiar patterns from past conflicts. Meanwhile, leaks disrupt Russia-Ukraine negotiations, raising tensions and uncertainty. The rise of Israeli settlers and their normalization in media reflects far-right ideologies gaining traction, highlighting an unsettling shift in the sociopolitical landscape.
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US Narco Narrative Lacks Evidence
- The US frames a 'counter-narcotics mission' off Venezuela to justify military strikes without solid evidence.
- The programme argues the narco-state narrative echoes false pretexts used before major US interventions.
Cartel Term Weaponized Politically
- The term 'Cartel de los Soles' evolved from slang about corrupt officers into a fixed political pretext.
- Guest commentators link this invention to efforts to manufacture consent for regime change.
Mainstream Media Amplify Official Lines
- Major US outlets often default to administration language, repeating claims like 'narco-state' without rigorous scrutiny.
- The programme compares this to how some media amplified WMD claims before the Iraq War.
