The US Treasury Department has expanded its sanctions against the inner circle of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. This move is part of a broader strategy by the Trump administration to destabilize Maduro’s government through both economic and military pressure.
The new sanctions focus on seven individuals, including family members and associates of Maduro’s nephew, Malpica Flores. These individuals are accused of benefiting from corruption within Venezuela’s state-run oil company, PDVSA, and supporting what the US calls a “narco-state.”
Beyond financial penalties, the situation has turned violent. The US military has implemented a naval blockade, seized an oil tanker, and conducted strikes on vessels near the coast, resulting in over 100 deaths.
While the US officially cites drug trafficking as the reason for its presence, officials like Stephen Miller have recently claimed that Venezuela’s oil reserves—the largest in the world—rightfully belong to the US due to historical American investment.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent argues that Maduro’s “illegitimate dictatorship” threatens the stability of the Western Hemisphere and must be dismantled. President Maduro has accused the US of manufacturing a war to achieve “regime change” and steal the country’s natural resources. The European Union has also maintained its own sanctions and arms embargo on Venezuela, recently extending them until 2027 due to concerns over state repression.
US Imposes New Sanctions on Maduro’s Family and Venezuelan Oil Sector
