The United States has raised the reward for information leading to the arrest of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro to $25 million (£20.4 million), coinciding with his swearing-in for a third six-year term.
The inauguration was marked by widespread criticism from the international community and opposition leaders in Venezuela. In addition to the reward for Maduro, the US has also offered a $15 million reward for information leading to the arrest or conviction of Defence Minister Vladimir Padrino. A separate reward is in place for Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello.
The UK has joined in exerting pressure on Venezuela, imposing sanctions on 15 senior officials, including judges, security personnel, and military leaders. The UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office accused the sanctioned individuals of “undermining democracy, the rule of law, and committing human rights violations.”
These developments highlight the growing international condemnation of Maduro’s government, accused of corruption, authoritarian practices, and systemic human rights abuses.
