U.S. Sanctions on Venezuelan Allies Amid Allegations of Election Fraud and Crackdown

The Biden administration announced new sanctions against 16 Venezuelan officials close to President Nicolas Maduro, citing widespread voter fraud and subsequent repression. Among those targeted are Supreme Court President Caryslia Rodriguez and electoral council director Rosalba Gil. The U.S. has also imposed visa restrictions on unspecified 'Maduro-aligned' officials.

The Biden administration has imposed sanctions on 16 allies of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, citing 'widespread voter fraud' in the recent election and subsequent governmental crackdown on opposition. This move follows the arrest warrant for opposition leader Edmundo Gonzalez, who fled to Spain.

Sanctioned individuals include Supreme Court President Caryslia Rodriguez and electoral council director Rosalba Gil. The U.S. also implemented visa restrictions on unspecified 'Maduro-aligned' officials, aiming to hold those accountable for post-election repression.

Despite the new measures, the U.S. stopped short of imposing additional sanctions on Venezuela's already struggling energy sector. The Biden administration aims to pressure Maduro into negotiating with the opposition to address the ongoing crisis while balancing the geopolitical and economic impacts.

(With inputs from agencies.)