The United States has announced a $25 million reward for information leading to the arrest of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, coinciding with his inauguration for a third six-year term. This increased bounty is part of the US government’s continued efforts to address allegations of narco-terrorism and corruption against Maduro, originally brought in 2020.
The US has also placed rewards on other key Venezuelan officials, including $15 million for Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino and additional sanctions targeting Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello. Meanwhile, the UK, EU, and Canada have joined in sanctioning Venezuelan officials, accusing them of undermining democracy and violating human rights.
Maduro, 62, has denied the accusations, blaming US-led sanctions for Venezuela’s economic collapse. He dismissed the allegations as imperialist interference and vowed that his new term would bring “peace, prosperity, and equality.” However, the international community has widely rejected the July 28 election results, recognizing exiled opposition leader Edmundo González as the legitimate president-elect.
The inauguration was tightly controlled, with limited access for Venezuelan media and foreign journalists. Only a few allies, including Cuba and Nicaragua, attended. Maduro’s government has issued an arrest warrant for González, offering a $100,000 reward for his capture.
Western nations have condemned the alleged erosion of democracy under Maduro, with Canada stating it will not tolerate the repression of citizens seeking to exercise their rights. The EU extended sanctions against Venezuela for failing to restore the rule of law.
Amid mounting international isolation, Maduro retains support from allies such as Russia, Iran, and China. His government remains at odds with opposition figures and global leaders calling for democratic reforms.
