The United States has intensified its campaign against Nicolás Maduro, the embattled president of Venezuela, by now offering a $25 million reward for information leading to his arrest. This significant increase in bounty is a direct response to Maduro’s recent inauguration for a controversial third term, which he secured amid allegations of electoral fraud. The U.S. has recognized his opponent, Edmundo González, as the legitimate president-elect of Venezuela, underscoring the administration's commitment to support democratic principles in the region.
Biden Increases Reward for Maduro's Capture to $25 Million
Biden Increases Reward for Maduro's Capture to $25 Million
In a bold move, the Biden Administration escalates its efforts to remove Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro from power by raising the bounty on his head to $25 million.
Maduro has long been a target for U.S. law enforcement, especially after being indicted for his alleged involvement in drug trafficking and organized crime. This new offer marks an escalation of tensions, reminiscent of the previous $15 million bounty set by the Trump administration. Alongside Maduro, $25 million bounties have also been announced for Diosdado Cabello, the interior minister, and $15 million for defense minister Padrino López.
As part of a broader strategy to hold Maduro's regime accountable, the U.S. Treasury has also imposed new sanctions on eight key Venezuelan officials, aiming to stifle the operations of Maduro's administration further. Bradley T. Smith, a Treasury official, reiterated the U.S.'s position, emphasizing the need for Maduro to heed the calls for democracy from the Venezuelan populace.
Additionally, the Biden administration has extended temporary protected status for around 600,000 Venezuelans currently in the United States, allowing them to stay and work legally for an additional 18 months, reflecting ongoing humanitarian concerns amidst Venezuela's ongoing crisis.
This maneuvering signifies a pivotal moment in U.S.-Venezuela relations, as opposition to Maduro's regime continues to mount internationally.
As part of a broader strategy to hold Maduro's regime accountable, the U.S. Treasury has also imposed new sanctions on eight key Venezuelan officials, aiming to stifle the operations of Maduro's administration further. Bradley T. Smith, a Treasury official, reiterated the U.S.'s position, emphasizing the need for Maduro to heed the calls for democracy from the Venezuelan populace.
Additionally, the Biden administration has extended temporary protected status for around 600,000 Venezuelans currently in the United States, allowing them to stay and work legally for an additional 18 months, reflecting ongoing humanitarian concerns amidst Venezuela's ongoing crisis.
This maneuvering signifies a pivotal moment in U.S.-Venezuela relations, as opposition to Maduro's regime continues to mount internationally.
