US Announces $50M Bounty on Venezuela's Maduro Amid Drug Trafficking Allegations

US Offers $50M Bounty for Maduro Amid Drug Allegations

The United States has significantly escalated its efforts against Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, announcing a $50 million reward for information leading to his arrest.

US Attorney General Pam Bondi stated that Maduro is accused of supporting drug cartels and violent gangs, fostering corruption and repression within Venezuela.

According to Bondi, Maduro leverages foreign terrorist organizations such as Tren de Aragua, Sinaloa, and Cartel of the Suns to traffic drugs and violence into the U.S.

Key Findings

• The Drug Enforcement Administration reports seizing 30 tons of cocaine linked to Maduro and his associates.
• Nearly seven tons are directly connected to Maduro, allegedly a primary income source for cartels operating in Venezuela and Mexico.
• The DOJ has seized over $700 million in assets linked to Maduro.
• Allegedly, the Cartel of the Suns, composed of Venezuelan government officials, collaborates with the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC).

Previously, the Trump administration offered $15 million, which was later raised to $25 million under President Biden. The bounty doubled to $50 million under the Trump administration.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio has stated that the U.S. does not recognize Maduro as the legitimate President of Venezuela.