The head of the Venezuelan regime, Nicolás Maduro, issued a stern warning against the United States and, in particular, against President Donald Trump, after Washington doubled the reward to 50 million dollars for information leading to his arrest.
Flanked by his main military and police chiefs during the broadcast of his television program Con Maduro +, the president claimed that an attempt to capture him could trigger "the end of the American empire."
“To the imperialists I say, and to my people: do not dare, because the response could mark the beginning of the end of the American empire. Leave undisturbed those who are at peace. I am a man of peace, but I am a warrior,” Maduro asserted in a defiant message.
On set, the president was accompanied by the Minister of Interior, Diosdado Cabello, who boasted about having the so-called "peace quadrants" active in 2,703 community circuits across the country, equipped with patrols, motorcycles, communication devices, and an upgraded surveillance camera system.
For his part, the Strategic Operational Commander of the Bolivarian National Armed Forces (FANB), G/J Domingo Hernández Lárez, pledged absolute loyalty to the Chavista leader and condemned the reward offer from the U.S., calling it an "outrage" to Venezuelan military honor.
"In true Hollywood western style, a reward is being offered for our leaders. The FANB considers itself offended," declared Hernández Lárez.
At another point in the program, Maduro surprised everyone by proposing an initiative to unite the Armed Forces of Venezuela and Colombia in joint efforts against violence and drug trafficking along the border.
The proposal arises in response to recent statements made by Colombian President Gustavo Petro, one of the few allies of Caracas in the region.
"To unify the cooperative efforts among authorities, governors, and mayors; to bring together ministries and the military forces of both countries to ensure violence-free territories from Táchira and Zulia to La Guajira," he stated.
The threat from Maduro comes days after the U.S. Department of Justice and the Department of State announced an increase to $50 million in the reward for his capture, accusing him of leading the Cartel de los Soles and coordinating massive shipments of cocaine to U.S. territory.
Washington has warned that it will not cease until bringing Maduro to justice, while the Venezuelan leader insists it is an act of "imperial aggression" against his government and his country.
Frequently asked questions about Maduro's threat to Trump and the reward for his capture
Why did Nicolás Maduro threaten the United States and Donald Trump?
Nicolás Maduro issued a warning against the United States and Donald Trump in response to the increase in the bounty for his capture, which Washington raised to 50 million dollars. Maduro claimed that an attempt to arrest him could trigger "the end of the American empire," describing it as an act of imperialist aggression.
What is the Cartel of the Suns and what is Maduro's connection to it?
The Cartel of the Suns is a Venezuelan criminal organization accused of drug trafficking and linked to Maduro's regime. According to the United States, Maduro leads this cartel, which collaborates with groups such as the FARC and the Sinaloa Cartel in the drug trade to the U.S. Additionally, the OFAC has designated the Cartel of the Suns as a Global Terrorist Organization.
Why did the United States increase the reward for the capture of Nicolás Maduro?
The United States has increased the reward for the capture of Nicolás Maduro to 50 million dollars due to his alleged involvement in narcoterrorism activities and his leadership in the Cartel de los Soles. This measure also responds to Washington's rejection of the 2024 elections in Venezuela, which are considered fraudulent.
How can informants provide information for the capture of Nicolás Maduro?
Informants can provide information for the capture of Nicolás Maduro through the official DEA website or by calling +1-202-307-4228. The rewards program ensures the confidentiality of any informant who provides useful information.
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