More allies of Venezuela’s Maduro sanctioned by US for post-election repression

The United States has taken a firm stance against the allies of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, imposing sanctions on an additional 21 individuals for their role in repressing Venezuelans following the disputed presidential election in July. The Department of the Treasury targeted security and cabinet-level officials, including the head of the nation’s corrections agency, the director of an intelligence service, and the minister of Maduro’s Office of the President, among others. This move adds to the list of dozens of sanctioned Venezuelans, which includes high-ranking officials such as the head of the country’s high court, ministers, and prosecutors.

In response to Maduro’s declaration of victory in the election, the Biden administration last week recognized Venezuelan opposition candidate Edmundo González as the “president-elect.” Additionally, the U.S. imposed visa restrictions on individuals accused of further repressing Venezuelans after the election. González, who claimed victory in the presidential election by a significant margin, sought refuge in Spain after a warrant was issued for his arrest in connection with the publication of vote tallies.

The U.S. government had previously imposed sanctions on 16 allies of Maduro in September, citing their involvement in obstructing the vote and committing human rights abuses. While the impact of the new sanctions and visa restrictions remains uncertain, it is clear that Maduro loyalists still maintain positions of power within Venezuela’s government.

Meanwhile, Venezuelan lawmakers are deliberating a bill that would classify economic sanctions as a crime against humanity and enable the prosecution of individuals expressing support for such measures. The ongoing debate underscores the heightened tensions surrounding the political situation in Venezuela and the international community’s efforts to address the crisis.

As the U.S. continues to pressure the Maduro regime and support the Venezuelan opposition, the situation in the country remains fluid and complex. The imposition of sanctions serves as a key tool in exerting diplomatic pressure and promoting accountability for human rights violations. The international community will be closely monitoring developments in Venezuela as efforts to restore democracy and stability in the country continue.