Why it matters:
This move marks a sharp escalation in Washington’s pressure campaign against Caracas, as relations remain frozen and U.S. sanctions continue to target Venezuela’s political and military leadership.
The big picture:
The bounty is offered under the Narcotics Rewards Program and doubles the $25 million reward announced in January. U.S. officials accused Maduro of smuggling cocaine into the United States.
By the numbers:
$50M: Current reward for information on Maduro.
$700M: Assets seized by the U.S. Justice Department linked to Maduro.
What they’re saying:
U.S. Justice Department: Maduro is a “key figure” in a criminal organization responsible for smuggling massive quantities of cocaine into the U.S.
U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi: "Under President Trump's leadership, Maduro will not escape justice and he will be held accountable for his despicable crimes".
Venezuelan Foreign Minister Yván Gil: U.S. bounty is “pathetic” and U.S. officials' accusations are “crude political propaganda.”
“Her show is a joke, a desperate distraction from her misery,” Gil said, in a pointed reference to US official Pam Bondi, linking her to controversies over the so-called “Epstein client list.”
Between the lines:
Washington has for years accused Venezuela’s leadership of using state institutions to facilitate organized crime, while Caracas dismisses the allegations as politically motivated efforts to undermine the country’s sovereignty.
Go deeper:
Maduro Calls Netanyahu “21st Century Hitler,” Condemns Israeli Strikes on Iran
Hossein Vaez - ahmad shirzadian
