US Offers $25 Million Reward for Venezuelan Leader Maduro as Controversy Surrounds His New Term
The United States has announced a $25 million reward for any information that leads to the capture of Venezuela’s President Nicolás Maduro, according to BBC. This announcement came on the same day Maduro was sworn in for his third six-year term. His inauguration sparked criticism from many countries and opposition leaders, who view his government as corrupt and undemocratic.
In addition to the reward for Maduro, the US also offered $15 million for information on Defence Minister Vladimir Padrino and Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello. Both are accused of helping Maduro stay in power through illegal means. BBC reports that the UK has joined in by placing sanctions on 15 top Venezuelan officials, accusing them of undermining democracy and violating human rights.
The Foreign Secretary, David Lammy, called Maduro’s government “fraudulent” in a statement. BBC explains that the European Union also extended sanctions against Venezuela, blaming Maduro’s regime for failing to restore democracy. A total of 15 more officials were sanctioned by the EU.
Despite facing growing pressure from the international community, Maduro remains defiant. BBC notes that during his oath-taking ceremony, he promised the next six years would bring “peace, prosperity, and equality” to Venezuela. However, his words were met with doubt, as most countries do not recognize him as the legitimate leader. Instead, many, including the US, support exiled opposition leader Edmundo González, who claims he is the rightful president.
According to BBC, González fled Venezuela in September after being declared president-elect by many countries. He now lives in Spain but is traveling around the Americas to seek more support. Meanwhile, Maduro’s government has issued an arrest warrant for González, offering $100,000 for his capture.
BBC adds that Venezuela’s elections in July were widely criticized as unfair. The National Electoral Council (CNE), which supports Maduro, declared him the winner. Many believe the elections were rigged to keep him in power. Even opposition candidate María Corina Machado, who was replaced by González on the ballot after being barred from running, has gone into hiding.
BBC highlights that while Maduro still has allies like Iran, China, and Russia, he is becoming increasingly isolated. Only the presidents of Cuba and Nicaragua attended his swearing-in ceremony, reflecting how few international leaders support him.
This situation shows how deeply divided Venezuela is, with Maduro trying to hold onto power despite mounting pressure from both within and outside the country.
As BBC points out, the future remains uncertain, with Venezuela caught between hope for change and fear of more political turmoil.
Credit : BBC
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c4g9ezyw0keo