The United States has imposed sanctions on family members and associates of Venezuela’s President Nicolas Maduro and his wife. The Treasury Department stated that seven individuals tied to the couple are now sanctioned.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said these actions aim to dismantle networks that “prop up Nicolas Maduro’s rogue narcostate.” He added that the US will not allow Venezuela to continue supplying deadly drugs to American communities.
Accusations Against Maduro
Bessent accused Maduro and his associates of threatening peace and stability in the Western Hemisphere. The US government emphasized it will continue targeting groups supporting Maduro’s so-called illegitimate dictatorship.
Venezuelan officials have denied any links to crime. They claim the US is trying to remove Maduro to control Venezuela’s vast oil reserves.
Recent US Measures
In recent months, the US has increased pressure on Maduro’s government. This includes a military buildup in the southern Caribbean, strikes against suspected drug vessels, and seizing a sanctioned oil tanker near Venezuela.
The US has also declared a “blockade” on sanctioned oil tankers entering or leaving Venezuelan ports. President Trump has indicated that strikes on Venezuelan soil may be planned in the near future.
Family Members Sanctioned
Friday’s sanctions included relatives of Carlos Erik Malpica Flores, the nephew of Maduro’s wife, Cilia Flores. US authorities say Malpica Flores was involved in a corruption scheme at state oil company PDVSA.
Other family members targeted include his mother, father, sister, wife, and daughter. Malpica Flores had been sanctioned by the US last week.
Protection for Citgo Petroleum
The Treasury Department also extended a general license protecting Venezuela-owned Citgo Petroleum from creditors through February 3. This license is shorter than the previous six-month extension issued in June.
The license prevents transactions with Venezuela-issued bonds backed by Citgo equity. It has helped Citgo operate safely amid legal disputes and a court-organized auction of PDV Holding shares, Citgo’s parent company.
Court-Approved Sale of Citgo Shares
A US judge authorized the sale of Citgo’s parent company shares to an affiliate of Elliott Investment Management. The sale follows approval of a $5.9 billion bid aimed at paying Venezuela-linked creditors.
Treasury Department approval is still pending for the sale. This step concludes a two-year auction process intended to resolve debts and compensate up to 15 creditors affected by defaults and expropriations.
The US sanctions on Maduro’s family and associates represent a significant escalation in efforts to curb drug trafficking and corruption. Combined with military and financial measures, these steps aim to pressure Venezuela’s government and limit its global influence.
