Newsweek, January 2025
Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has called for a campaign for the “liberation” of Puerto Rico from the United States. Maduro, who took power in 2013 following Hugo Chávez’s death from cancer, was sworn in for a third six-year term this past Friday, despite rebukes from the United States and other governments that say he stole last year’s election and widespread protests ahead of the ceremony. The U.S. and other governments recognized Maduro’s opponent, Edmundo González, as the victor of last July’s election.
On Friday, the U.S. announced a $25 million reward for information leading to Maduro’s arrest or conviction, highlighting a renewed effort to destabilize Maduro’s presidency and bolster the opposition’s bid to restore democracy. Although the chances of Puerto Rico being invaded appear unlikely, the comments serve as a reminder of the Venezuelan challenges that await President-elect Donald Trump when he returns to the White House on January 20.
