US sanctions more relatives, associates of Venezuelan President Maduro

Al JazeeraCenterEN 2 min read 100% complete by Lyndal RowlandsDecember 20, 2025 at 05:20 AM

AI Summary

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In December 2025, the U.S. Treasury Department announced new sanctions on relatives and associates of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro. The sanctions, targeting seven individuals linked to Maduro's nephew Malpica Flores and businessman Ramon Carretero, aim to increase pressure on the Maduro regime. U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated the action was to target networks supporting Maduro's "illegitimate dictatorship," citing threats to regional peace and stability. This action follows previous sanctions on Flores, oil tankers, and shipping firms. The U.S. military has also increased pressure by attacking boats off the Venezuelan coast and imposing a naval blockade on sanctioned vessels. The U.S. Treasury Department alleges Flores is connected to corruption within Venezuela's state-run oil company.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Scott Bessent 50% Venezuela ×460% United States ×370% Nicolas Maduro ×480%

Keywords

us sanctions 100% venezuela 90% nicolas maduro 80% trump administration 70% economic pressure 60% naval blockade 50% oil tanker 50% corruption 40% petroleos de venezuela sa 40%