Protesters Denounce American Military Risks and Accusations of 'Drug Terrorism' in Anti-Imperialist Rally in Venezuela
The United States government has increased the bounty on Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro's arrest to $50 million, following allegations of his involvement in narcotics trafficking and collaboration with powerful drug cartels.
These accusations, grounded in formal charges filed in March 2020, include narco-terrorism, conspiracy to import cocaine, and possession of machine guns, made in the Southern District of New York. The US Treasury also designated the Cartel de los Soles as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist entity in 2025, linking Maduro to these criminal networks.
However, these allegations are contested by Venezuela, with Maduro and his allies rejecting them as politically motivated. The evidence from US indictments and Treasury designations forms the basis for the accusations, but independent and international assessments may vary.
The increased bounty reflects the US government's position that Maduro is involved in significant international narcotics trafficking and associated criminal activities. The US Department of Justice alleges that Maduro works hand in glove with Mexican and Venezuelan drug cartels, presenting him as a direct threat to US national security.
Meanwhile, in Caracas, thousands of Venezuelans marched on August 13, 2025, to denounce the Trump administration's latest aggression against the Venezuelan government. The "Great Anti-Imperialist March" was organized by the ruling Socialist Party (PSUV) in several cities nationwide.
National Assembly (AN) president Jorge Rodríguez addressed the rally, condemning the "stupid threats" from "fascists from the North." He also criticised the US government for providing no evidence to back the charges, labelling them part of a smear campaign against the Venezuelan government tied to regime-change operations.
Venezuela's President Gustavo Petro has also condemned US military threats, following reports that the Trump administration directed the Pentagon to start using military force against Latin American drug cartels. He wrote on X on Sunday that any military operation without the approval of neighbouring countries is an act of aggression against Latin America and the Caribbean.
In 2005, Venezuela ceased cooperation with the US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), accusing it of being a facade for US-sponsored drug trafficking operations and espionage in the region.
The Maduro government has repeatedly condemned the US-backed Israeli genocide of the Palestinian people. Venezuela has been a leading voice in opposing US-led aggression around the world and has promoted South-South cooperation and sovereignty.
Daniel Córdova, spokesperson for the Comuna Luchadores por El Buen Vivir, vowed that the communal movement would remain steadfast in the face of US aggression. He reiterated the government's stance that the accusations against Maduro are politically motivated and lack evidence.
In conclusion, the increased bounty on Maduro's arrest reflects serious US charges and designations linking him to narcotics trafficking and terrorism, but these remain contested by Venezuela. The controversy surrounding these allegations continues to fuel international tensions and protests.
The controversy surrounding Maduro's alleged involvement in narcotics trafficking and terrorism, as outlined by US policy and legislation, has stirred significant international tensions and protests. Venezuela, on the other hand, refutes these charges, viewing them as politically motivated and lacking evidence, a stance that is evident in their politics and general news.
