The U.S. has escalated its pressure on Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro by announcing a $25 million reward for information leading to his arrest, coinciding with his inauguration for a third six-year term. This move comes amid widespread international condemnation of the July election results, which were deemed illegitimate by numerous countries and organizations.
Key Developments:
- U.S. Rewards and Charges:
- The U.S. has increased the reward for Maduro’s capture, citing longstanding narcotics and corruption charges.
- Rewards of $15 million and $10 million have also been placed on Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello and Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino, respectively.
- The charges stem from a 2020 indictment accusing Maduro and others of narco-terrorism and using cocaine trafficking as a weapon against the U.S.
- International Sanctions:
- The U.K. imposed sanctions on 15 top Venezuelan officials for alleged human rights violations and undermining democracy.
- The European Union extended its restrictive measures against Venezuela and sanctioned 15 additional officials.
- Canada introduced fresh sanctions, with Foreign Minister Mélanie Joly condemning Maduro’s “repression” and erosion of democracy.
- Maduro’s Isolation:
- While Maduro retains support from allies like Russia, China, Iran, Cuba, and Nicaragua, he is increasingly isolated globally.
- Key regional neighbors, including Brazil and Colombia, have rejected the election results.
- Maduro’s inauguration was a controlled event with limited media access and low foreign attendance, apart from Cuban and Nicaraguan leaders.
Opposition and Fallout:
- Exiled Opposition Leader:
- Edmundo González, recognized as the legitimate president-elect by the U.S. and other countries, continues to rally international support from exile in Spain.
- Maduro’s government has issued an arrest warrant for González, offering a $100,000 reward for information leading to his capture.
- UN Appeal:
- UN Secretary-General António Guterres has called for the release of individuals arbitrarily detained following the contentious election.
Maduro’s Stance:
In his inaugural speech, Maduro promised a “period of peace, prosperity, equality, and the new democracy.” He blamed Venezuela’s economic struggles on U.S.-led sanctions, while critics pointed to corruption and mismanagement within his administration.
This intensifying international opposition signals growing challenges for Maduro’s regime, both domestically and on the global stage.
