ECNETNews, September 12, 2024: In a decisive move, the United States has escalated its actions against Venezuela, unveiling new sanctions and visa restrictions aimed at combating alleged electoral fraud and oppression under Nicolás Maduro’s administration following the contentious July 28th presidential election.
U.S. State Department officials emphasized their concerns regarding the deterioration of democratic practices in Venezuela, reaffirming their commitment to support the Venezuelan population in their quest for a democratic future.
The United States has taken significant steps to hold Maduro’s government accountable, with the Department of Treasury sanctioning 16 high-ranking officials, including prominent members of Venezuela’s National Electoral Council and Supreme Tribunal of Justice. These sanctions are directed at individuals deemed responsible for manipulating election outcomes and suppressing political opposition through intimidation, detention, and censorship.
Moreover, visa restrictions have been placed on numerous Maduro-affiliated officials implicated in the politically motivated arrest of Edmundo González Urrutia, an opposition candidate widely recognized as the rightful winner of the July 28th election, who was compelled to seek refuge in Spain.
Collaborating with international allies, the United States has condemned the Venezuelan government’s actions. During a session at the United Nations in New York, the U.S., alongside Panama and over 30 other nations, reiterated its call for the restoration of democratic governance in Venezuela. The Organization of American States has also adopted a resolution advocating for transparency and electoral integrity, while regional governments continue to demand greater accountability.
These initiatives are part of a larger U.S. strategy, which has seen over 140 Venezuelans and nearly 100 entities facing sanctions for corruption and human rights abuses. The U.S. has also confiscated assets linked to Maduro, including a recently seized aircraft in the Dominican Republic, and imposed visa bans on almost 2,000 individuals.
The United States remains steadfast in its resolve to work alongside international partners to ensure accountability for Maduro’s regime and to support the Venezuelan people in their fight for a democratic future.
