In a dramatic escalation of tensions, the United States has announced a substantial increase in the monetary reward for information leading to the arrest of Venezuela's President Nicolás Maduro. The reward now stands at $50 million, doubled from an earlier figure of $25 million. This decision comes as the US accuses Maduro of being one of the world's most significant narcotraffickers.
US Increases Reward for Nicolás Maduro to $50 Million, Accusing Him of Drug Trafficking
US Increases Reward for Nicolás Maduro to $50 Million, Accusing Him of Drug Trafficking
The US government doubles the reward for information leading to the arrest of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, citing his involvement in international drug trade.
US Attorney General Pam Bondi outlined allegations linking Maduro to drug smuggling, asserting that he collaborates with various criminal organizations, including the notorious Sinaloa Cartel and Tren de Aragua, a Venezuelan gang categorized as a terrorist group by the Trump administration. In a recent video message, Bondi elaborated on the situation, claiming that the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has confiscated approximately 30 tons of cocaine associated with Maduro, with nearly seven tons directly tied to him.
Maduro, who has held power since succeeding Hugo Chavez in 2013, has consistently denied these accusations.
Venezuelan Foreign Minister Yvan Gil dismissed the US's latest move as “pathetic” political propaganda, insinuating that it serves as a diversion from domestic issues confronting the US administration. The comments from US officials reflect ongoing tensions between Washington and Caracas, especially since the disputed reelection of Maduro, which has faced extensive criticism from international observers and resulted in sanctions from both the UK and EU.
Historically, the tension culminated in charges against Maduro and prominent officials in the Venezuelan government during Trump's presidency, with scathing rhetoric regarding “narco-terrorism” and corruption. Recent developments include the conviction of Hugo Carvajal, a former military intelligence chief in Venezuela, who changed his plea to guilty in connection with drug trafficking charges while in Spain. His testimony is speculated to potentially implicate Maduro further.
As the situation evolves, the implications of the increased reward and the US's continued stance against Maduro may further complicate Venezuela's political landscape and its relations with the international community.
Maduro, who has held power since succeeding Hugo Chavez in 2013, has consistently denied these accusations.
Venezuelan Foreign Minister Yvan Gil dismissed the US's latest move as “pathetic” political propaganda, insinuating that it serves as a diversion from domestic issues confronting the US administration. The comments from US officials reflect ongoing tensions between Washington and Caracas, especially since the disputed reelection of Maduro, which has faced extensive criticism from international observers and resulted in sanctions from both the UK and EU.
Historically, the tension culminated in charges against Maduro and prominent officials in the Venezuelan government during Trump's presidency, with scathing rhetoric regarding “narco-terrorism” and corruption. Recent developments include the conviction of Hugo Carvajal, a former military intelligence chief in Venezuela, who changed his plea to guilty in connection with drug trafficking charges while in Spain. His testimony is speculated to potentially implicate Maduro further.
As the situation evolves, the implications of the increased reward and the US's continued stance against Maduro may further complicate Venezuela's political landscape and its relations with the international community.
