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NewsNBC Miami PoliticsJune 13, 2026United States

U.S. Military Strike Kills Tren de Aragua Leader in Venezuela

President Donald Trump announced that a U.S. military strike in Venezuela has killed Hector Rusthenford Guerrero Flores, the leader of the Tren de Aragua gang. The operation, which involved coordination with Venezuelan authorities, targeted a compound associated with the group, which the U.S. has designated as a terrorist organization.

foreign policymilitary operationsorganized crimeimmigrationnational security
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Why It Matters

This military action marks a significant escalation in U.S. efforts to target the Tren de Aragua gang, impacting regional security and U.S.-Venezuela diplomatic relations.

Key Facts

  • A U.S. military strike killed Hector Rusthenford Guerrero Flores, leader of the Tren de Aragua gang, in Venezuela.
  • The U.S. government has officially designated Tren de Aragua as a terrorist organization.
  • Guerrero Flores faced federal charges in New York for racketeering conspiracy and supporting terrorists.
  • The U.S. State Department had previously placed a $5 million bounty on Guerrero Flores.
  • At least 207 people have been killed in U.S. military strikes against suspected drug-smuggling boats since early September.
  • The U.S. government previously removed former Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro from the country to face drug charges in January.
  • The U.S. is currently pursuing a plan involving security assurances for mining companies in Venezuela.

Who's Mentioned

organizationTren de Aragua“Criminal organization designated as a terrorist group by the U.S.”other207“Number of people killed in U.S. military boat strikes since early September.”personHector Rusthenford Guerrero Flores“Deceased leader of the Tren de Aragua gang, also known as 'Niño Guerrero'.”personJay Clayton“U.S. Attorney and nominee for director of national intelligence.”personPete Hegseth“U.S. Defense Secretary who confirmed the strike location.”personDonald Trump“President of the United States who announced the strike.”