Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro accuses the US of attempting to orchestrate regime change in Caracas.
President Maduro alleges that the US is funding a group of corrupt individuals to destabilize Venezuela. He claims the US, having refused to recognize Venezuela’s upcoming 2024 elections, is providing financial support to former Latin American leaders deemed corrupt to undermine his government.
Maduro stated on Wednesday that the US government and State Department are actively funding these efforts, citing extensive financial support for these activities.
He specifically criticized the Lima Group, a coalition of 12 governments that has supported the US policy of isolating Venezuela since 2017, declaring their efforts to be unsuccessful and outdated. He referred to any renewed efforts by this group as a revival of a morally bankrupt organization comprised of corrupt and criminal former leaders.
Maduro called for an end to US interventionism and extremism in Venezuela.
Maduro announced the recent apprehension of seven mercenaries, including US, Colombian, and Ukrainian nationals, accused of plotting attacks against Venezuelan infrastructure and Vice President Delcy Rodriguez. He also mentioned the detention of 125 more militants from various countries since November, highlighting the significance of the arrests made, particularly those of the American citizens.
The US, under both Presidents Trump and Biden, has refused to recognize Maduro’s legitimacy, maintaining sanctions and supporting opposition leader Juan Guaido (who has since left Venezuela). This support, however, ultimately failed to oust Maduro.