US Expands Sanctions Against Maduro’s Family and Associates

The United States imposed sanctions on family members and associates of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife. The move aims to increase pressure on Maduro amid concerns over drug trafficking and corruption. Treasury officials said the sanctions target individuals connected to Maduro’s network, which threatens regional peace and stability. The US emphasized it will not tolerate Venezuela sending drugs into the country.

The Treasury Department announced sanctions on seven people linked to Maduro and First Lady Cilia Flores. Those targeted include relatives of Carlos Erik Malpica Flores, sanctioned last week for corruption at state oil company PDVSA. The new measures cover his mother, father, sister, wife, and daughter. Officials described the network as a serious threat to hemispheric security.

The Trump administration has recently escalated pressure on Maduro. It deployed military assets in the southern Caribbean, seized a sanctioned oil tanker, and struck suspected drug vessels. US officials also enforced a blockade on Venezuelan oil shipments. Trump has warned of potential land strikes, signaling readiness to further counter the Maduro government.

Alongside sanctions, the Treasury extended a general license for Venezuela-owned Citgo Petroleum, temporarily shielding it from creditors until February 3. This protection is shorter than previous six-month extensions. Citgo, a Houston-based refiner, remains protected while court auctions pay Venezuelan-linked creditors. In November, a US judge approved selling PDV Holding shares for $5.9 billion, pending Treasury approval.

The Venezuelan government denied any criminal links and accused the US of attempting to seize its oil reserves. No immediate comment came from Venezuela’s information ministry about Friday’s sanctions. The US measures signal continued pressure on Maduro and his inner circle, aiming to curb corruption and drug trafficking.

Read more : Trump Rejects Maduro’s Terms as Safe Passage Expires

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro is losing options for a safe exit after a tense call with US President Donald Trump. The November conversation became the most direct contact between the two leaders in months. It took place during rising military tensions and expanding US counter-narcotics operations. Maduro has denied US accusations of corruption and terrorism. However, Washington increased pressure by labeling the Cartel de los Soles as a foreign terrorist group.

During the call, Maduro asked the US for full legal amnesty for himself and his family. He also demanded that all sanctions be lifted and the International Criminal Court case be stopped. Moreover, he wanted more than 100 Venezuelan officials to receive the same protection. Two sources said he sought to install Vice President Delcy Rodríguez as head of an interim government. These requests came as Maduro explored a possible negotiated departure.