U.S. Slaps New Sanctions and Offers Record Rewards Amid Maduro Inauguration
In a coordinated move with the European Union, the United Kingdom, and Canada, the U.S. government announced fresh sanctions and increased rewards against Nicolás Maduro and other key figures of the Venezuelan regime, simultaneous to Maduro’s contentious inauguration Friday.
The magnified sanctions functionally target different aspects and associates of the dictatorship, while bonus offerings for critical information leading to their captures have been significantly boosted.
Record Rewards for Maduro and Cabello
Headlining the substantial increases is Nicolás Maduro, the regime’s leader recently installed as the allegedly illegitimate president of Venezuela. The U.S. reward for his capture was escalated to $25 million, a staggering $10 million uptick from prior figures, further cementing his status as a top international fugitive, dubbed "the leader of the Cartel of the Suns."
Similarly, Diosdado Cabello, Maduro’s right-hand man and Interior Minister, also had his price raised to $25 million.
New Target: Defense Minister Padrino López
Notably, Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino López joins the sanction list, with Washington placing a $15 million price tag on his head.
Additional Sanctions and Visa Restrictions
Beyond the elevated rewards, the U.S. also enforced measures against eight close allies of the regime, such as PDVSA President Héctor Obregón Pérez, the Minister of Transportation, and the President of Conviasa.
Around 2,000 Venezuelan citizens, classified as collaborators of the dictatorship, will face U.S. visa restrictions. In parallel, Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Venezuelans was extended another 18 months, signifying continued U.S. commitment to supporting Venezuelan citizens.
EU Bolsters Sanctions
In a complementary move, on Thursday evening, the European Council adopted Decision (EU) 2025/44, reinforcing its sanctions against Venezuelan officials tied to undermining democratic norms and human rights abuses, particularly during the July 2024 presidential elections.
Fifteen individuals were added to the existing list, further demonstrating the European Union’s resolve in pressuring the Maduro administration.
