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By Michael D. Carroll and Amir Daftari
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The United States has announced a $25 million reward for information leading to the arrest or conviction of Nicolás Maduro, coinciding with the day he was sworn in as president of Venezuela, the BBC has reported.
Why It Matters
Maduro, chosen by the late socialist icon Hugo Chávez to succeed him in 2013, has overseen Venezuela's decline into economic chaos. Accused of corruption, human rights violations, and drug trafficking, he continues to cling to power while suppressing dissent.
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The U.S. reward highlights a renewed push to destabilize Maduro's presidency and bolster the opposition's bid to restore democracy.
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What To Know
Only a handful of nations, including Russia, have recognized Maduro as the winner of Venezuela's July election. In contrast, the United States and the European Parliament have declared Edmundo González the "president-elect," further challenging Maduro's authority.
González Urrutia's Exile and Defiance
Venezuelan authorities have announced a $100,000 reward for the capture of González, who fled to Spain in September. Maduro's government posted a "wanted" notice for the exiled candidate, who insists he won the July election. González, 75, vowed to return to Venezuela to be sworn in as president, defying Maduro's claim to a third term.
Economic Collapse and Political Tensions
Maduro's presidency has been marred by Venezuela's economic downfall. Critics accuse him of acting like a harsh dictator, crushing dissent while the country remains in crisis. The U.S. reward aims to erode Maduro's grip on power and lend support to opposition forces working for democratic reform.
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What People Are Saying
In an interview with Newsweek, Former National Security Adviser John Bolton reflected on previous failed attempts to unseat Maduro, saying: "One piece of advice I would give to Rubio is to ensure that Maduro does not believe he has won."
Bolton also drew parallels to 2019, a year when international efforts to remove Maduro faltered, and urged policymakers to adopt a firm stance against the regime. "We've done this before and need to make sure it doesn't fail again," he said, highlighting the stakes for U.S. foreign policy.
U.S. President-elect Donald Trump recently voiced his support for González on Truth Social, stating: "These freedom fighters should not be harmed, and MUST stay SAFE and ALIVE!"
What Happens Next
The power struggle between Nicolás Maduro and Edmundo González will likely intensify as international actors continue to apply pressure. The outcome could shape Venezuela's future and its standing on the global stage.
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