The United States announced new sanctions against four individuals and six entities for supporting Nicolás Maduro's government in Venezuela. The measures also identify six vessels as blocked property. U.S. officials say the targeted individuals include three of Maduro’s nephews, two of whom were previously convicted of drug trafficking.
According to the State Department, these two nephews were granted clemency in October 2022 by the previous administration as part of a prisoner exchange involving seven Americans detained in Venezuela. After returning to Venezuela, they reportedly resumed their involvement in drug trafficking activities.
In addition to individuals, today’s sanctions focus on Venezuela’s oil sector. They include a businessman and six shipping companies believed to be linked to illicit operations.
A State Department spokesperson said: “The U.S. government will continue to deny financial lifelines to the illegitimate Maduro regime, which he uses to oppress the Venezuelan people. The United States is committed to keeping the American people safe by using all available means to eliminate threats of narco-trafficking and crime throughout our hemisphere.”
The action is being taken under Executive Orders 13850, 13692, and 14059. More information about these measures can be found on the Department of the Treasury’s press release.
