CARACAS, Venezuela — The United States has leveled sanctions against an additional 21 associates of President Nicolás Maduro, alleging their involvement in the oppressive tactics utilized by Venezuelan authorities in response to the contested presidential election of July.
These sanctions, enacted by the Treasury Department, target high-ranking security and cabinet officials, including the leader of the national corrections agency, the chief of an intelligence agency, and the minister associated with Maduro’s presidential office. This group adds to an existing list of numerous Venezuelans already sanctioned, which features senior judges, government ministers, and prosecutors.
Last week, the Biden administration acknowledged opposition candidate Edmundo González as the new “president-elect” of Venezuela. In addition to the new sanctions, the U.S. also imposed visa restrictions on individuals it believes are involved in repressing Venezuelans following the July 28 election.
Despite Maduro’s announcement of victory in the election, his administration has not disclosed any vote counts to substantiate this claim. González, who sought asylum in Spain in September after a warrant was issued for his arrest related to allegations surrounding vote tally publications, insists that he won the election decisively.
Earlier this September, the U.S. government took action against 16 of Maduro’s associates, accusing them of hindering the electoral process and committing human rights violations.
The impact of the latest sanctions and visa prohibitions remains uncertain, as those already penalized still hold significant positions within the Venezuelan government.
Venezuelan legislators have continued discussions regarding a proposed bill that would classify economic sanctions as a crime against humanity, potentially allowing the prosecution of individuals who support such measures.