Venezuela criticized new sanctions imposed by the U.S., Britain, and the European Union after President Nicolas Maduro began a third term despite a six-month election dispute. General Domingo Hernandez Larez, head of Venezuela’s Armed Forces, denounced the measures as a "desperate action" violating international law.
The U.S. raised its reward to $25 million for information leading to Maduro’s arrest on drug trafficking charges, up from $15 million, and announced similar rewards for Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello and Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino. New sanctions were also placed on eight officials, including state oil company PDVSA’s head, Hector Obregon.
The Biden administration’s actions align with accusations made in 2020 when Maduro and others were indicted on narcotics and corruption charges, claims Maduro has rejected. Hernandez asserted Venezuela’s government combats drug trafficking aggressively.
Sanctions from Britain and the EU targeted 15 officials, including members of the National Electoral Council and security forces, while Canada sanctioned 14 current and former officials.
Maduro, in power since 2013, claimed victory in the disputed July election, although detailed vote tallies have not been released. The opposition argued that their candidate, Edmundo Gonzalez, won by a landslide based on ballot-level tallies.
Maduro’s tenure has been marked by severe economic and social crises, triggering a mass exodus of Venezuelans. His government condemns sanctions as illegitimate tools of economic warfare aimed at crippling the nation.
These developments add to Venezuela’s ongoing struggles under Maduro's leadership, intensifying international tensions and domestic discontent.