The United States has announced an increased reward of $25 million (£20.4 million) for information leading to the arrest of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro.
The announcement coincided with Maduro’s inauguration for a third six-year term in office, a ceremony marred by condemnation from the international community and sharp criticism from Venezuelan opposition leaders.
In addition to the reward for Maduro, the US has offered bounties for other high-ranking Venezuelan officials. A reward of up to $15 million has been set for Defence Minister Vladimir Padrino, while rewards for the arrest or conviction of Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello have also been issued.
The developments come amidst growing pressure on Maduro’s government, with the United Kingdom imposing sanctions on 15 senior Venezuelan officials. The sanctions target judges, members of the security forces, and military officials accused of serious misconduct.
According to the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), those sanctioned were directly responsible for “undermining democracy, the rule of law, and human rights violations” in Venezuela.
UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy condemned Maduro’s administration, describing it as a “fraudulent regime.” The sanctions and the increased US rewards signal escalating international efforts to hold the Venezuelan leadership accountable for its actions and alleged abuses.
Faridah Abdulkadiri
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