NEW YORK – Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro continues to face a wide range of serious international allegations, including narcotics trafficking, crimes against humanity, electoral fraud, and large-scale corruption. The accusations originate from multiple international bodies and governments, including the United States Department of Justice, the International Criminal Court, the United Nations, and various human rights organizations.
Narco-terrorism charges in the United States
In 2020, U.S. prosecutors formally indicted Maduro on charges of narco-terrorism and drug trafficking. According to the indictment, he allegedly led the so-called “Cartel of the Suns,” accused of collaborating with the Colombian guerrilla group FARC to traffic large quantities of cocaine into the United States. U.S. authorities announced a reward of up to $50 million for information leading to his arrest or conviction.
Crimes against humanity under ICC review
Since 2021, the International Criminal Court has been conducting an investigation into alleged crimes against humanity in Venezuela. The probe focuses on claims of systematic persecution, torture, extrajudicial killings, and enforced disappearances. United Nations fact-finding missions have previously reported that Venezuelan security forces were responsible for thousands of deaths during security operations and political crackdowns.
Political repression and mass arrests
International monitors report that following protests linked to Venezuela’s 2024 election period, more than 2,000 people were arbitrarily detained. Human rights groups estimate that over 1,000 political prisoners remain in custody. Reports by UN investigators and NGOs document the use of torture, inhumane treatment, and, in some cases, sexual violence against detainees.
Disputed elections and allegations of fraud
Maduro has also been accused of manipulating presidential elections in 2018 and 2024. Critics allege that electoral authorities failed to publish full vote tallies and ignored evidence suggesting opposition victories. These claims have been cited by international observers as undermining the credibility of Venezuela’s electoral process.
Corruption and economic collapse
Further allegations involve large-scale corruption, particularly linked to Venezuela’s state oil company. Investigators and analysts claim that billions of dollars were embezzled, contributing to economic mismanagement. Venezuela has endured years of hyperinflation, widespread poverty affecting more than half the population, and a mass exodus of millions of citizens seeking refuge abroad, including in the Caribbean.
Environmental damage from illegal mining
Maduro’s government is also accused of overseeing or tolerating illegal gold mining operations, particularly in southern Venezuela. Environmental groups report severe deforestation and mercury contamination of rivers, affecting indigenous communities and biodiversity.
Maduro rejects accusations
President Maduro has consistently denied all allegations, describing them as politically motivated attacks orchestrated by the United States and its allies. His government maintains that Venezuela is the victim of economic warfare and foreign interference.
The allegations, however, continue to shape international policy toward Venezuela and have significant regional implications, including for Caribbean nations such as Curaçao, which have been directly affected by migration flows and regional instability stemming from Venezuela’s prolonged crisis.