The United States has dramatically increased its reward from $15 million to $25 million for information leading to the arrest of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, according to the news release of U.S Department of State. This announcement coincided with Maduro's controversial swearing-in ceremony for his third six-year term. The inauguration was marked by international criticism and opposition protests, with most accredited Venezuelan media banned from the event and foreign journalists denied entry into the country. U.S. prosecutors have accused Maduro of playing a central role in the Cartel of the Suns, a Venezuelan drug-trafficking organization composed of high-ranking officials. Maduro allegedly coordinated multi-ton cocaine shipments with the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC), a designated terrorist organization. The story uncovered that Maduro reportedly directed the cartel to provide military-grade weapons to the FARC and sought their assistance in training an unsanctioned militia.
The international community has responded with swift action against the Maduro regime. A press release of Gov.UK mentions that the government has imposed sanctions on 15 top Venezuelan officials, while the European Union has extended its restrictive measures against the country. Adding to the pressure, a news release by the Goverment of Canada confirms that new sanctions have been implemented, citing democratic concerns.
In a recent development, a story by the BBC confirms that Maduro's allies have dwindled to just a few nations, with only the presidents of Cuba and Nicaragua attending his inauguration. Maduro's July election victory has been widely rejected by the international community, including Venezuela's traditionally supportive neighbors, Brazil and Colombia. The opposition candidate, Edmundo González of Democrtic Unity Roundtable Party, who is currently in exile, has been recognized by many countries as the legitimate president-elect.
Authorities urge those with potentially valuable information located outside the U.S. to contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. Those within the U.S. are directed to reach out to their local Drug Enforcement Administration office.
Sources:
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c4g9ezyw0keo
https://www.cbsnews.com/miami/news/reward-for-venezuelas-maduro-increased-to-25-million/
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