Nicolás Maduro Inaugurated Amid Global Outcry

Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has been sworn in for a third six-year term, despite widespread international criticism and allegations of electoral fraud, prompting the US to announce a $25m reward for information leading to his arrest.

The US, along with several other countries, has refused to recognize Maduro as the legitimate president, instead backing Edmundo González, who is widely believed to have won the July 28 election. The international community's rejection of Maduro's election win has led to increased diplomatic pressure, with the UK, EU, and Canada imposing new sanctions on Venezuelan officials. Maduro's inauguration was marked by protests in Caracas and other cities, with opposition leader Maria Corina Machado emerging from hiding to speak at an event, despite the government's attempts to quash dissent.

The Venezuelan government's denial of detaining Machado has done little to alleviate concerns over the country's deteriorating human rights situation. Maduro's accusation that the opposition is attempting a "Guaidó 2.0" – a reference to Juan Guaidó's 2019 proclamation as interim president – has only served to further polarize the situation. The US, Canada, and several other countries have recognized González as the rightful president-elect, while the EU, UK, Brazil, and Colombia have not, leaving the country in a state of political limbo.

As Venezuela's economic crisis deepens, with widespread poverty and shortages, the international community's attention remains focused on the country's political situation. With Iranian, Chinese, and Russian support keeping Maduro in power, the US and other countries are increasingly isolated in their attempts to pressure the Venezuelan government into reform. The situation remains volatile, with no clear resolution in sight, as Maduro continues to defy international criticism and maintain his grip on power.