In a significant escalation, the United States government has increased the reward for information leading to the capture or conviction of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro to an unprecedented US$25 million. This move underscores the growing urgency and gravity with which Washington views Maduro’s alleged involvement in narco-terrorism and international drug trafficking.
The US Department of State announced the hike, up from the previous US$15 million, citing the “critical threat” Maduro poses to global stability and security. A senior State Department official described the measure as a necessary step to further incentivize actionable intelligence against the Venezuelan leader.
A Web of Allegations
Maduro, 62, has faced US federal indictments since 2020, with prosecutors accusing him of orchestrating a narco-terrorism conspiracy in collaboration with the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC). Allegedly, Maduro played a central role in the Cartel of the Suns, a Venezuelan drug-trafficking syndicate composed of military and political elites.
The charges include coordinating the shipment of multi-ton quantities of cocaine into the United States, supplying military-grade weaponry to FARC operatives, and establishing a militia that functioned as an armed enforcer for the cartel’s operations.
Reward Program Encourages Global Collaboration
The reward increase highlights the ongoing international effort to bring Maduro to justice. The US government has urged individuals with relevant information to come forward, emphasizing confidentiality and safety for whistleblowers. Those within the United States are encouraged to contact their local DEA office, while individuals abroad can relay information through US embassies or consulates worldwide.
Political and Global Implications
The announcement coincided with Maduro’s controversial inauguration for a third presidential term following Venezuela’s disputed July 2024 elections. The US State Department has openly dismissed the legitimacy of his victory, labeling the election process as “deeply compromised” by fraud.
Washington’s stance on Maduro has remained resolute since 2019, when it ceased recognizing him as Venezuela’s legitimate leader in favor of opposition figure Juan Guaidó. The increased reward signals a continuation of this policy while intensifying pressure on the Venezuelan regime.
A Stark Warning to Narco-States
This latest move by the United States serves as a stark warning to leaders accused of leveraging state mechanisms for criminal enterprises. The US remains steadfast in addressing the nexus between government corruption and transnational crime, reaffirming its commitment to protecting international security.
For many in Venezuela and beyond, the case against Maduro represents a litmus test for international accountability in the face of narco-terrorism.
