Maduro Guerra, a lawmaker with Venezuela’s ruling United Socialist Party (PSUV), relayed a message of solidarity from his father, saying Maduro had expressed gratitude and urged authorities to focus on supporting the families of those killed and injured in the operation. The newly established Committee to Assist Family Members of the Victims is intended to provide legal and practical support, bringing together military, civil justice bodies and victims’ organisations.

Addressing the families, Maduro Guerra vowed the state would pursue accountability and protection for those affected. Meanwhile, accusations and political tensions over the US military intervention, part of “Operation Absolute Resolve”, continue to reverberate across Venezuela and internationally, as interim authorities navigate the complex aftermath of Maduro’s capture and detention in the United States.

Sanchez said that following “the events of the last month, Venezuela is peacefully moving forward, and ready to receive investment, and trying to compete in the market, in the international market, like every other player.” He also referred to recent economic activity and projected growth, noting that even with past restrictions, the government aims for rapid economic expansion.

On Venezuela’s role in oil production, Sanchez stated: “We would like to be… We know that the reference for Venezuela is that the country with the biggest oil reserve. And we want to stop being known about this, and we want to be known as one of the countries with the highest production levels.” He added that the government intends to use oil revenues to diversify the economy .

The comments come amid significant political developments in Venezuela. A recent U.S. military action resulted in the arrest and removal of former President Nicolás Maduro, and Delcy Rodríguez has been designated interim president. The transition has drawn international attention and debate over the future leadership and governance of Venezuela.

Rodríguez accused Machado of supporting foreign military action against Venezuela, saying it was unacceptable for a Venezuelan to express gratitude for the bombing that caused suffering to the population . She said the Venezuelan people reject any form of aggression that brings anguish to families, particularly to children and young people.

During her visit to the La Soublette sector, one of the areas impacted by the operation aimed at capturing President Nicolás Maduro, Rodríguez led an aid initiative to support around 5,500 families. The assistance included medical care, infrastructure repairs and veterinary services .

According to a Washington Post report , Parolin had begun probing US intentions as early as Christmas Eve, asking the American ambassador to the Holy See whether Washington was targeting drug traffickers or pursuing outright regime change.

What Parolin was ultimately pushing for, the report said, was time. 

He urged US officials to exercise patience and allow Maduro to step aside peacefully, potentially accepting asylum in Russia. Moscow, Parolin suggested, was prepared to guarantee the Venezuelan leader’s security if an exit could be arranged.

Those efforts failed. Just over a week later, US Special Operations forces swooped into Maduro’s residence in Caracas and captured him and his wife — an operation that left about 75 people dead. 

This week, Parolin and the Holy See Press Office confirmed the outlines of the Post report. 

Without elaborating on his conversations with US officials or the source of Russia’s alleged offer, Parolin said Venezuela had been plunged into a “situation of great uncertainty.” 

“We had tried precisely — as, among other things, has appeared in some newspapers — to find a solution that would avoid any bloodshed, trying perhaps to reach an agreement even with Maduro and with other figures in the regime, but this was not possible,” he said.

Pope ‘deeply concerned’

Pope Leo XIV himself has voiced unease. 

A day after the January 3 operation, Pope Leo XIV used his Angelus address to express “deep concern” for Venezuela, stressing respect for human rights and national sovereignty. 

“The good of the beloved Venezuelan people must prevail over every other consideration,” he said, calling for paths of “justice and peace."

His remarks took on added weight after Donald Trump suggested that US control over Venezuela — and its vast oil reserves — could last “years.”

Not the first time

The Vatican’s intervention was not unprecedented. 

Formally represented in global affairs by the Holy See, the Catholic Church occupies an unusual diplomatic space: the world’s smallest state, with no army and fewer than 1,000 residents, yet led by a pontiff with moral authority over some 1.4 billion Catholics worldwide. 

For centuries, popes have acted as mediators and moral brokers, relying on soft power.

From Cold War diplomacy to conflict mediation in Latin America, the Vatican has repeatedly sought to insert restraint where power politics threaten bloodshed. 

Its failed bid to secure an exile for Maduro proves just that. 

In the decree announcing the mourning period, Díaz-Canel said the personnel were carrying out missions on behalf of Cuba’s Revolutionary Armed Forces and Ministry of the Interior, at the request of Venezuelan institutions. He stated that those killed died either in direct combat or as a result of bombardments on facilities, describing their actions as a reflection of Cuba’s longstanding policy of international solidarity.

Venezuelan authorities said the Cuban personnel were operating within the framework of cooperation between sovereign states, performing institutional protection and defence duties. Media reports indicate that the wider US attacks in the Venezuelan states of Miranda, La Guaira and Aragua have left at least 80 people dead, including both civilians and military personnel, further intensifying regional and international scrutiny of the operation.

The debate followed the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and First Lady Cilia Flores by US forces after strikes on Caracas and other areas, with Washington stating the operation was linked to narcoterrorism charges. Venezuelan authorities declared a national emergency, accusing the United States of attempting to seize strategic resources, particularly oil and minerals .

At the Security Council, the US rejected accusations of military aggression, describing the operation as a limited law enforcement action rather than an act of war. That explanation was challenged by several delegations, including Russia, China and Colombia . Russia’s UN ambassador said there was no justification for US actions in Venezuela, while China said it was “deeply shocked” by what it called bullying behaviour. The African A3 group also expressed serious concerns.

The operation has drawn condemnation beyond the UN chamber, with criticism from governments across Latin America, BRICS countries and other regions. European Union members and several European states called for respect for international law, though most avoided directly condemning the United States, highlighting divisions in the international response.

He made the remarks while speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One. Trump referenced what he called the "Donroe Doctrine," a play on the historic Monroe Doctrine, which dates back to 1823 and warned European nations not to interfere in the Western Hemisphere.

Although he described Delcy Rodriguez as cooperating, he warned she could face a “worse situation” than the ousted leader, Nicolas Maduro, if she did not continue to do so.

He also made critical remarks about other Latin American countries. Maduro is expected to face charges today in the US

Maduro was removed from power and flown out of the country to face drug trafficking and narco-terrorism charges led by U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi. The U.S. government said Maduro was the head of a transnational criminal enterprise.

“We’re going to run the country until such time as we can do a safe, proper, and judicious transition,” Trump said. “We can't take a chance that somebody else takes over Venezuela.”

In the hours that followed, Venezuela’s Supreme Tribunal of Justice appointed Vice President Delcy Rodríguez as interim president. Much of the existing government structure remained in place.

Years of pressure on Venezuela

The operation did not come out of nowhere. It marked a major moment in a long U.S. effort to shape Venezuela’s political future.

In 2019, the Trump administration backed opposition leader Juan Guaidó as interim president and imposed heavy economic sanctions as part of what it called a “maximum pressure” strategy.

By late 2025, reports said the CIA had been authorised to carry out covert operations inside Venezuela, pointing to a sharper push to remove Maduro. The U.S. has also been linked to the failed 2002 coup against then-President Hugo Chávez, though Washington has disputed the extent of its involvement.

Venezuela’s oil wealth has remained a key issue. The country holds an estimated 17% of global oil reserves. Trump has said U.S. companies would play a central role in rebuilding the energy sector.

“We’re going to have our very large United States oil companies… go in, spend billions of dollars, fix the badly broken infrastructure… and start making money for the country,” he said.

A familiar pattern

Maduro’s removal places Venezuela among many countries where the U.S. has pursued regime change.

Since 1947, the United States has been involved in about 100 regime-change operations, according to estimates by scholar Jeffrey Sachs. These efforts have ranged from open military action to covert political and economic interference, often targeting governments seen as hostile to U.S. interests.

Early interventions before the Cold War

U.S. involvement in regime change began long before modern geopolitics.

In 1893, American-backed groups overthrew Queen Liliʻuokalani in Hawaii, a move that later led to U.S. annexation. From 1912 to 1933, U.S. forces occupied Nicaragua and took control of key parts of the government and economy .

During the “Banana Wars” between 1903 and 1925, Honduras experienced repeated U.S. military interventions that helped install or protect governments friendly to American business interests.

World War II and occupation politics

During World War II, U.S. forces played a direct role in defeating fascist governments in Germany, Italy, and Japan.

After the war, American-led occupations reshaped political systems in South Korea from 1945 to 1948 and in Austria from 1945 to 1955.

Cold War coups and covert actions

The Cold War era saw a sharp rise in secret operations.

In Iran in 1953, Operation Ajax removed Prime Minister Mohammad Mosaddegh and restored the Shah. A year later in Guatemala, the CIA’s Operation PBSuccess overthrew elected President Jacobo Árbenz.

In 1963, the U.S. supported a coup against South Vietnam’s President Ngo Dinh Diem, who was later assassinated. In Chile, U.S.-backed economic pressure helped set the stage for the 1973 coup that removed President Salvador Allende and brought Augusto Pinochet to power.

In 1989, the U.S. invaded Panama under Operation Just Cause and removed President Manuel Noriega.

Post-9/11 

After the 11 September attacks, U.S. military action took on new urgency.

In 2001, the U.S. invaded Afghanistan to dismantle Al-Qaeda and remove the Taliban. Two years later, it led a coalition into Iraq, overthrowing Saddam Hussein over claims of weapons of mass destruction.

In 2004, the U.S. played a direct role in the departure of Haiti’s President Jean-Bertrand Aristide, who later said he was forced out. In Libya in 2011, U.S. and NATO airpower backed rebels who overthrew and killed Muammar Gaddafi.

That same year in Egypt, the U.S. withdrew support for President Hosni Mubarak during mass protests and encouraged a political transition.

“Donald Trump has ushered in a new world order where the military might prevail over rule of law and respect for an independent country’s sovereignty,” he said, arguing that the seizure of a foreign leader by force placed the US in the same category as the powers it routinely condemns.

Julian Borger, a senior international correspondent at The Guardian, described the strikes and abduction as a devastating blow to global norms. 

“The overnight strikes on Venezuela, the abduction of its leader, Nicolás Maduro, and his wife, and Donald Trump’s declaration that the US would ‘run’ the country and sell its oil, have driven another truck through international law and global norms,” he wrote .

For Mogato, the implications extend far beyond Venezuela, and complicates Washington’s stance in criticising Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine or Beijing’s potential use of force against Taiwan. 

“Washington has lost its moral ascendancy after launching military operations in Caracas and grabbed its leader, Nicolas Maduro,” he said.

What’s the real purpose?

Hours after Maduro’s removal, the US president said his administration was ready to fix Venezuela’s oil industry and sell its output. 

Borger said Trump had made clear he was “more covetous of Venezuela’s oil than motivated by a desire to bring Maduro before a court, or deliver democracy.”

He cited US analyst David Rothkopf, who labelled the shift the “Putinization of US foreign policy ”, noting that Moscow has long argued that great powers are entitled to dominate their neighbourhoods by force.

Despite just days after the operation, Mogato said the consequences were already visible. 

“The world has become more dangerous and chaotic in 2026,” he said, describing a landscape in which “stronger states imposed their will on smaller and weaker states.”

Borger warned that anxiety would not be confined to Latin America , pointing to Trump’s recent threats against Iran, Greenland and Cuba. Events in Venezuela, he said, would “cause immediate anxiety” among governments that now fear they could be next.

Delcy Eloína Rodríguez Gómez, 56, is a seasoned politician and lawyer who has been a central figure in Venezuelan politics for years, closely aligned with the socialist movement initiated by Hugo Chávez and continued under Maduro. She previously served in key roles including foreign minister, head of the Constituent Assembly and, since 2018, vice president during which time she also oversaw aspects of the country’s oil sector and economic policy.

Her sudden elevation to acting president places Rodríguez at the centre of a complex and contested political moment. While Venezuelan authorities brand the US operation that removed Maduro as an illegitimate “ military aggression,” Rodríguez has denounced the action and demanded evidence of Maduro’s wellbeing, asserting his continued legitimacy even as she steps into a leadership role.

International reactions to her appointment have been mixed. Some foreign governments and analysts view Rodríguez as a pragmatic choice who may be able to engage with external powers, particularly the United States , on economic and governance issues. Others question her legitimacy given her long association with the previous regime and the extraordinary circumstances of her rise to power.

The United Nations Security Council will hold an emergency meeting on January 5 to discuss what Venezuela has described as U.S. military aggression following the removal of President Nicolás Maduro and First Lady Cilia Flores from the country. The meeting , requested by Venezuela and convened by Somalia, which chairs the Council in January, was called for 10:00 a.m. (GMT-5). According to Venezuela’s permanent representative to the UN, Samuel Moncada, the request followed a “large-scale attack” carried out by U.S. forces on civilian and military locations in Caracas and the states of La Guaira, Aragua and Miranda. Several countries, including China, Russia, Belarus, Cuba, Nicaragua, Brazil and Turkey, expressed solidarity with Venezuela, stating that Washington had violated the UN Charter. U.S. President Donald Trump, speaking after the operation, said the United States would oversee what he described as an “appropriate transition” in Venezuela. “We are going to get our big American oil companies, the biggest in the world, to invest billions of dollars…and start generating revenue for the country,” Trump said during a press conference.

Domestic flights resume

Several Venezuelan airlines announced the resumption of domestic flights from Sunday, January 4, after a temporary suspension. State carrier Conviasa said scheduled flights would operate “according to the established itinerary.” Laser Airlines confirmed that “only domestic flights are being reactivated,” adding that passengers booked for January 3 could reschedule “without penalty.” Aeropostal Alas de Venezuela said flights planned for Saturday would instead operate on Sunday “along with the flights scheduled according to the itinerary.” Airlines urged passengers to arrive at airports at least two hours early and ensure their contact details were up to date.  

Supreme Court appoints Delcy Rodríguez acting president

Venezuela’s Supreme Court of Justice ordered Executive Vice President Delcy Rodríguez to assume the presidency on an interim basis, citing the forced absence of President Maduro. Magistrate Tania D’Amelio, president of the Constitutional Chamber, said the court acted “in view of the foreign aggression that occurred this Saturday, January 3, 2026, against the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, as well as the kidnapping of Constitutional President Nicolás Maduro Moros and First Lady Cilia Flores.” The court described the situation as “exceptional, atypical and force majeure,” adding that the decision was necessary “to guarantee the administrative continuity of the State and the defense of the nation.”  

At least 40 killed in U.S. attack

At least 40 people, including civilians and military personnel, were killed during the U.S. attack on Venezuela, according to a senior Venezuelan official quoted by The New York Times. The report said one strike hit a residential building in Catia La Mar, La Guaira state, killing an 80-year-old woman and leaving several families homeless. Vice President Delcy Rodríguez confirmed fatalities, saying there were deaths “among soldiers and civilians,” though the government has yet to publish an official casualty toll.

Artists react to Maduro’s capture

The capture of President Maduro sparked strong reactions among Venezuelan artists. Singer Carlos Baute posted a video on social media saying, “Venezuelans haven't slept a wink, folks. Finally, Mr. Trump said he's captured that tyrant Maduro. Congratulations, Venezuela, we're with you.” He later added , “Our Christmas present has come true.” Actress Marjorie de Sousa appealed for calm and faith, writing, “God, I ask you for my good people, cover them… long live my Venezuela. God is great, free Venezuela, one day will come.” Singer-songwriter Ricardo Montaner wrote, “Lord, watch over and bless the Venezuelan people, take away the wicked and let peace reign.” Meanwhile, singer Danny Ocean marked the moment by sharing an image of the Venezuelan flag.

Donald Trump says the US will oversee Venezuela ’s transition and rebuild its oil sector, a move that marks a sharp reversal of his pledge to avoid starting new wars.

The Venezuelan government has strongly rejected the US version of events, condemning what it describes as “military aggression” and a violation of national sovereignty, and demanding proof of life for Maduro and his wife. Vice-President Delcy Rodríguez said Caracas has lost contact with the president and criticised the operation as a blatant breach of international norms. Several Latin American governments, including Brazil ’s, have also condemned the US action as crossing an “unacceptable line,” urging respect for Venezuelan sovereignty.

This dramatic development has drawn immediate comparisons to historical precedents such as the 1989 US invasion of Panama and the capture of General Manuel Noriega. But beyond historical echoes, the core question now gripping diplomats and international lawyers is whether such an operation can be justified under international law. Under the UN Charter, the use of force against the territorial integrity or political independence of a state is generally prohibited unless authorised by the United Nations Security Council or justified under narrow self-defence exceptions. Arresting a sitting head of state without consent could be interpreted as a violation of those principles.

Legal scholars point out that capturing a foreign president without a clear international mandate could amount to unlawful interference in the internal affairs of another state. The principle of sovereign equality means that no nation, regardless of military power, is entitled to act as a global judge and enforcer without agreed legal authority. In this context, critics argue that the US action could be characterised as a form of extrajudicial seizure rather than a lawful arrest under recognised international mechanisms.

Supporters of the action, including some regional political figures allied with Trump, have framed it as a necessary step against what they characterise as dictatorship and criminality in Venezuela . They argue that Maduro’s contested legitimacy and the serious criminal charges against him, including longstanding US indictments on narcotics and related offences, justify extraordinary measures. However, international criticism has stressed that such arguments do not override fundamental legal obligations under global treaties and customary international law.

The situation remains fluid, with Trump scheduled to address the operation in a press conference and scepticism persisting about the full details of what has taken place on the ground. Whether the US action will be accepted, rejected or contested in international forums such as the United Nations will have ramifications far beyond Venezuela, raising urgent questions about the limits of power, the rule of law and the future of state-to-state relations in the 21st century.

According to Trump, they were flown out of Venezuela following “large-scale” strikes.

The Venezuelan government has accused the United States of launching attacks on both civilian and military sites in several states. In response to the incidents, President Maduro’s administration declared a national emergency. Officials described the situation as an act of “military aggression” by Washington and rejected the strikes.

During his first public address following the attack on Caracas, Trump stated the US will remain involved in Venezuela until what he calls a “safe, proper, and judicious transition” takes place, arguing this is necessary to protect peace , liberty, and the interests of Venezuelans at home and abroad. He also claims US oil companies would invest billions to rebuild Venezuela’s oil infrastructure and revive production, which he described as having collapsed over decades.

At the same time, Maduro extended a message to the US public, portraying Venezuela as a “friendly government” and a “brotherly people,” while calling for a renewed diplomatic dialogue between the two nations. He also defended Venezuela’s record on drug control and offered cooperation on anti-trafficking initiatives, highlighting readiness to negotiate concrete agreements if the United States engages seriously.

According to their testimonies, a US federal judge ruled on December 22 that the administration of President Donald Trump unlawfully ordered their deportation and subsequent detention at CECOT after branding them as terrorists. The ruling determined that the group had been denied the opportunity to challenge the accusations through a fair legal process.

Ysqueibel Penaloza, one of the former detainees, said that a US federal judge ruled on December 22, 2025, that the administration of President Donald Trump had denied due process to 252 Venezuelans deported to El Salvador and held at the Terrorism Confinement Centre (CECOT). He said the decision orders that the group be granted the opportunity for a fair hearing under US law and described the ruling as a reaffirmation that no government, regardless of its origin, is above international law, due process or respect for human rights .

The former detainees alleged that they were subjected to psychological and physical abuse during their confinement at CECOT, experiences they say have left lasting effects on their mental health. Several also reported difficulties reintegrating into society following their return to Venezuela.

The group has called on both the United States and El Salvador to comply fully with the court ruling, insisting that conditions must be guaranteed for them to participate in future legal proceedings without fear or risk to their safety.

In March, 252 Venezuelans deported from the United States were imprisoned in CECOT after being accused of links to the Tren de Aragua criminal gang, although 90 per cent reportedly had no criminal record. They were repatriated to Venezuela in July as part of a trilateral agreement, and have since publicly thanked President Nicolás Maduro for the government ’s role in facilitating their return.

Maduro said US measures reflected an attempt to exert control beyond its borders, warning that such an approach undermines international relations. He added that focusing on external intervention, rather than domestic economic and social challenges, would amount to poor leadership.

The Venezuelan leader also referenced plans in Congress to advance legislation aimed at protecting the country’s vessels and safeguarding oil trade. According to Maduro, the proposed law would reinforce international agreements that prohibit piracy, attacks on commercial shipping and other crimes affecting global trade.

His comments follow an announcement by President Trump that the United States would impose a blockade on what it calls “sanctioned oil tankers” entering or leaving Venezuela. Washington has accused the Maduro government of using oil revenues to finance drug trafficking , terrorism and human trafficking, allegations that Caracas has repeatedly rejected.

Participants said the congress aimed to reaffirm commitments to peace and to the sovereignty of Latin American nations. The event was framed by organisers as part of a broader international discussion on external pressure, geopolitical influence and the role of labour movements in defending national self-determination.

Venezuela’s foreign minister, Yvan Gil Pinto, used the gathering to draw attention to the scale of the US military presence in the Caribbean, which he described as the largest the region has seen. He accused Washington of pursuing policies rooted in colonialism and imperialism, arguing that military operations were driven by competition over strategic resources rather than by efforts to combat drug trafficking.

Similar concerns were raised by Said Gafurov, a professor at Moscow University, who placed Venezuela’s situation within a wider global context. “The Global North is trying to increase its control over all natural resources in the world,” he said, arguing that this dynamic extends beyond Venezuela to include Russia, the Middle East and other resource-rich regions.

Relations between Caracas and Washington deteriorated further after US President Donald Trump stated on social media that the military campaign in the Caribbean would continue until Venezuela returned assets he claimed had been taken from the United States. Following the comments, President Nicolás Maduro held a phone call with UN Secretary-General António Guterres to raise concerns over what the Venezuelan government describes as growing threats to the country and its population.

“It’s a blockade, not to let anybody go in through what shouldn’t be going through,” Trump said. “You remember, they took all of our energy rights. They took all of our oil from not that long ago. And we want it back. But they took it. They illegally took it.”

Earlier, Trump ordered what he described as a “total and complete” blockade of all sanctioned oil tankers entering or leaving Venezuela, significantly escalating pressure on the country’s energy sector. The move prompted criticism from China, which accused the United States of “bullying” and warned against unilateral actions that could destabilise global energy markets .

The announcement comes amid heightened international scrutiny of US policy toward Venezuela, which has long been subject to sanctions over governance and human rights concerns.

“I think that relationship is really important to them. They've had a long, friendly relationship with Iran, both in terms of, you know, sanctions busting Iranian oil and and as well as the Iranians have a very important defence relationship with Venezuela,” she said.

Flynn noted that Iran has taken on a larger military role in the country. 

“In fact, there's an Iranian-built and run drone factory in Venezuela,” she said, pointing to growing cooperation between the two governments.

Iran-backed groups are also operating inside Venezuela, Flynn noted, citing the Kudz Force, Hezbollah, as well as Iranian special forces.

She argued that this activity could have direct consequences for Washington, as the issue “is very close to our homeland and having Iran have that kind of a presence in Venezuela is not helpful to us.”

US officials have long monitored ties between Tehran and Caracas, but Flynn’s comments highlight renewed concern over how Iran may be using Venezuela to expand its influence closer to American territory.

Watch the full interview:

“I think the Maduro government is more viable than people think, even though, of course, the winner of the last election was not Maduro and the winner, Machado, has just been awarded the Nobel Peace Prize,” she said. 

Her remarks come as international pressure on Caracas continues. Flynn argued that assessments of Venezuela’s political future must focus on what keeps Maduro in place. 

“When you look at a government, you have to look at the institutions and the sources of support that Maduro does have,” she said. 

Chief among these, she noted, is the armed forces. “The military is a key. And as far as we can tell, the military still supports him,” Flynn added. 

She said Maduro has maintained that loyalty through careful patronage. “And he’s, you know, like all good dictators, is very careful to make sure the military gets paid regularly.”

For now, Flynn believes those dynamics make any sudden collapse unlikely. While the opposition and much of the international community insist political change is necessary, the pillars of state power appear to remain aligned behind Maduro — at least for the moment.

Watch the full interview:

Emphasising the personal dimension of the bilateral relationship, Maduro displayed his Huawei smartphone, which he said was a direct gift from the Chinese leader. He praised the device’s performance and highlighted what he described as its secure, “un-interceptable” features, presenting it as an example of China’s technological engagement with Venezuela.

Maduro also framed China’s support within what he called a broader “growing movement of international solidarity” towards Venezuela as it faces ongoing political and diplomatic confrontation with the United States .

While addressing China, Maduro also noted the country’s continued cooperation with Russia , referencing his May meeting with Vladimir Putin in Moscow. He said the Venezuela–Russia High-Level Intergovernmental Commission is pursuing new agreements in areas including oil, finance, defence, education, and technology, signalling continued efforts by Caracas to deepen ties with major global allies beyond the West.

This step signals a new phase because the FTO designation grants Washington stronger legal tools than previous sanctions allowed. Under this classification, individuals or entities that provide support to the group can face criminal prosecution, and U.S. agencies gain wider authority to freeze assets and pursue actions against those linked to the network. The shift from a financial sanctioning regime to an anti-terrorism framework elevates the confrontation from political disagreement to a security-based dispute.

Venezuela’s response underscores the escalation. Caracas dismissed the designation as a “ridiculous fabrication” and insisted that the Cartel de los Soles does not exist, framing the move as an attempt to justify an “illegitimate and illegal intervention.” The sharp rejection reflects how the new label challenges the legitimacy of senior Venezuelan officials by identifying them, according to Washington, as part of a structure tied to drug trafficking and to other groups already designated as terrorist organisations.

The timing has also fuelled perceptions of a shift. The measure comes at a moment when the U.S. has increased its military presence in the Caribbean and the southern Atlantic, a context noted by observers who see the combination of the FTO designation and regional deployments as part of a more assertive posture. While the label itself does not authorise military action, it expands the legal and political space for the U.S. to act more forcefully, if it chooses to do so.

Taken together, these elements explain why the terrorist designation represents a new phase: Washington has redefined its dispute with Venezuela from a diplomatic and economic confrontation to one framed around national and regional security with broader consequences and higher stakes for both governments.

Since the Pentagon deployed warships and aircraft in operations it claims are targeting drug trafficking networks near Venezuela, the bolívar has lost around 70 per cent of its value against the US dollar, according to central bank data. The gap between the official and black-market exchange rates has widened sharply, while authorities continue to prohibit publication of unofficial rates. The collapse of the currency has pushed up the cost of essentials such as maize flour and fuel, worsening living conditions for millions.

Maduro, who has governed for over a decade, accuses Washington of attempting to overthrow him through sanctions and economic pressure. The government has responded by cracking down on the parallel currency market, detaining dozens accused of “exchange manipulation”. Yet, inflation has continued to soar. The International Monetary Fund now estimates Venezuela’s annual rate at around 270 per cent — the highest in the world — and warns it could exceed 600 per cent by 2026.

The crisis has been compounded by falling oil revenues, tighter US sanctions , and the recent decision to limit Chevron’s ability to pay Venezuela in cash. In response, Caracas has turned increasingly to cryptocurrency transactions in a bid to secure foreign income. For ordinary Venezuelans, however, the reality remains bleak: a collapsing currency, dwindling purchasing power, and an uncertain future under the shadow of both economic and geopolitical strain.

Maduro, who has been the Venezuelan president since 2013, is locked in a conflict with Trump stemming from Washington’s growing presence in the Caribbean . 

A number of Venezuelan boats, accused by Trump of carrying drugs, have been sunk in the Caribbean in the past months.

Trump had even threatened a land attack to foil “a lot of drugs coming in from Venezuela.”

Despite the US-Venezuelan tension getting fatal, Maduro insisted there was nothing to fear. 

"What are they afraid of, if it's not me? It's people standing tall in battle, Bolivarian Chavistas, masters of their own destiny, who will never be humiliated and who will defeat imperialism in any of the threats they attempt against our beloved homeland," he said.

Venezuela responded to US provocations by activating a defence plan on its coasts, which involves 27 territorial operations that would be employed in the event of a direct attack from Washington. 

Venezuela’s human rights crisis continues to deepen as NGO Foro Penal confirmed that the number of political prisoners has risen to 875, marking one of the highest tallies in recent years. The organisation reported a surge in detentions targeting opposition figures, student activists, journalists, and civil society members. Analysts say this reflects a renewed campaign to suppress dissent and intimidate political movements ahead of upcoming electoral milestones. Human rights advocates warn that the trend showcases the government’s intent to maintain tight control over political life.

HRW calls for international pressure

Human Rights Watch issued a strong condemnation of conditions inside Venezuelan detention facilities, accusing authorities of intensifying the isolation and mistreatment of political detainees. According to HRW, prisoners are being held incommunicado, denied medical care, and subjected to psychological intimidation and overcrowded cells. The rights organisation urged foreign governments, particularly in the Americas and Europe, to increase diplomatic pressure on President Nicolás Maduro’s administration and pursue accountability measures through international legal channels.

US Military activity heightens

Geopolitical tensions continue to escalate as the United States boosts its military presence in the Caribbean as part of an effort to disrupt what Washington describes as Venezuelan-linked narcotrafficking networks. The move forms part of a broader strategy to pressure the Maduro government and counter regional security threats. Venezuela's leadership has denounced the deployment as provocative and politically motivated, while observers warn that rising military posturing raises the risk of miscalculation in an already volatile regional environment.

Machado’s Nobel Peace Prize

Opposition leader María Corina Machado’s Nobel Peace Prize recognition sparked cautious celebration worldwide, yet public reaction inside Venezuela remained subdued. Citizens and activists largely refrained from public gatherings or displays of support, citing fears of retaliation by security forces and pro-government groups. The restrained mood underscores the climate of surveillance and repression that persists despite international attention and recognition of Venezuela’s democratic opposition.

Regional activists criticise Nobel award to Machado

Machado’s Nobel Prize also sparked sharp criticism from regional left-leaning organisations and social movements, particularly in Latin America. Critics argue that her political stance and alliances align with conservative agendas and do not represent transformative peace-building values. While international institutions hailed her role in advocating for democratic freedoms, detractors insist the award overlooks Venezuela’s complex political landscape and risks reinforcing ideological polarisation in the region.

The upcoming consultation forms part of a broader state plan that has already seen two nationwide votes this year, with six more expected in total. According to government figures, more than 36,000 local initiatives have been submitted so far, involving participation from over 47,000 community councils and 7,400 polling stations. The winning projects will receive public funding for their implementation.

Maduro also rejected accusations linking Venezuela to the criminal organisation Tren de Aragua , calling such claims “xenophobic” and “racist.” He insisted that Venezuela is not defined by crime but by the “dignity and hard work” of its people — a message that aligns with his ongoing effort to frame the country’s communal governance model as both participatory and patriotic.

Pressed further by reporters who noted that Maduro had recently offered to mediate with the United States and pledged access to Venezuela’s natural resources, Trump said: “He’s offered everything. You’re right. You know why? Because he doesn’t want to mess around with the United States.”

The comments follow remarks earlier this week in which Trump appeared to hint that U.S. intelligence operations were underway in the South American nation.

Washington has long accused Caracas of facilitating drug trafficking , while Venezuelan officials allege that the United States is seeking to destabilise the government and seize the country’s vast oil reserves.

This diplomatic move comes in the wake of increased U.S. military operations in the Caribbean, targeting alleged Venezuelan drug trafficking vessels. The U.S. has conducted several strikes, resulting in casualties and raising concerns over sovereignty and international law. Maduro has condemned these actions as attempts to destabilise his government, further straining bilateral relations.

In his communication, Maduro expressed faith in Pope Leo XIV's ability to mediate, noting the pontiff's balanced approach and commitment to peace. He emphasised that the Vatican's diplomatic influence could play a pivotal role in de-escalating the situation and fostering dialogue.

The Venezuelan government has also invoked constitutional provisions, with Vice President Delcy Rodríguez indicating that Maduro has signed a decree granting himself special powers in response to what he perceives as external aggression. This move underscores the seriousness with which Caracas views the current crisis.

As tensions continue to rise, the international community watches closely, with hopes that diplomatic efforts, including those from the Vatican, can mitigate the risk of further escalation and contribute to a peaceful resolution.

Speaking during his weekly program Con Maduro + in Caracas, the president said the measure seeks to “protect our people , our peace, our stability” and would apply “in all directions” should Washington launch a military attack. Maduro argued that Venezuela has already endured “economic, diplomatic, psychological and political” pressure from the United States but has managed to move forward despite the strain.

The Venezuelan leader also aimed at Washington’s waning influence at the United Nations, claiming this year’s General Assembly revealed fewer states echoing the US position. He praised Colombian President Gustavo Petro for his UN speech questioning whether the organisation’s headquarters should remain in New York after Washington revoked his visa, calling Petro’s remarks “memorable” and a sign of “courage and strength.”

The announcement comes amid renewed friction between Caracas and Washington. Since August, Maduro has accused the US of deploying warships, submarines, missiles and aircraft in Caribbean waters near Venezuela. Washington has maintained that the operation is part of ongoing anti-narcotics efforts.

In the letter, dated September 6 and later published by Vice President Delcy Rodríguez, Maduro urged Trump to overcome “fake news” damaging bilateral relations, describing them as an obstacle to building a “historic and peaceful” relationship envisioned by Simón Bolívar. The Venezuelan leader also dismissed U.S. accusations of links between his government and drug trafficking , insisting Venezuela is a “territory free of drug production” and not a significant player in narcotics smuggling.

Maduro praised Grenell as a trusted channel of communication, pointing to past cooperation on migrant repatriation issues. However, Trump, when asked by reporters whether he had received the letter, gave a brief and ambiguous response: “We’ll see what happens with Venezuela ”. The U.S. president has recently warned Caracas of “a high price” if it fails to accept deported Venezuelans.

The exchange unfolds as Venezuela’s armed forces conduct nationwide drills, train civilians in weapons handling, and expand border operations in response to the U.S. naval deployment. While Washington says its presence targets drug trafficking, Caracas views the show of force as a threat aimed at regime change. The standoff has further strained ties, with Trump denying any formal plan to oust Maduro even as his administration doubles down on military pressure and sanctions .

Vice President Delcy Rodríguez accused Georgetown and Port of Spain of acting as “vassals” of the U.S. Department of Defence, alleging they were facilitating “plans of aggression” against Venezuela. “Do not dare, do not even think about it. You are lending yourselves to a perverse plan of aggression against the people ”, Rodríguez warned in a televised address last week.

Trinidad and Tobago’s Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar rejected the accusations on Friday, calling them “alarmist” and stressing that there are no plans with Washington to invade Venezuela or deploy Trinidadian troops. Both Guyana and Trinidad and Tobago, however, have expressed support for the U.S. military presence in the Caribbean, framing their cooperation as part of joint efforts against drug trafficking .

Washington currently has eight warships and a nuclear-powered submarine stationed near Venezuelan waters, officially under an anti-narcotics mission. The Maduro government , however, sees the deployment as part of an attempt to force regime change. The United States has long accused President Nicolás Maduro of leading the so-called “Cartel of the Suns”, a network it labels a terrorist organisation linked to drug trafficking. In March, the U.S. increased its reward for information leading to Maduro’s capture to $50 million.

Equipped with advanced electronic warfare systems, cannons, anti-ship missiles, a missile launch system, and a helicopter, the Van Amstel is considered one of the Dutch Navy’s most versatile warships. It is capable of surface and anti-submarine combat, artillery support, and air defence .

While Dutch authorities emphasise the mission’s role in strengthening security and stability in the Caribbean territories of the kingdom—Curaçao, Aruba, and Sint Maarten—local voices have raised concerns. Activist and former soldier Marlon Regales criticised the deployment, arguing that the official justification of combating drug cartels is unconvincing. “No one believes that fairy tale. They’re here to apply pressure”, he said, suggesting the move is part of wider geopolitical tensions involving Venezuela.

Regales also highlighted Curaçao’s colonial dependency on the Netherlands, warning that residents reject being used as a staging ground for potential military action in the region.

Dutch Defence Minister Ruben Brekelmans stated in late August that the Netherlands could send additional forces from Europe if necessary, but stressed that The Hague is not formally part of the U.S.-led deployment near Venezuela.

The move comes as the United States increases its military presence in the southern Caribbean. Washington has deployed F-35 fighter jets to Puerto Rico, warships, submarines, and thousands of troops as part of counter-narcotics and maritime security operations.

A recent flashpoint fueling tensions was a U.S. strike against a Venezuelan vessel allegedly linked to drug trafficking and the criminal group Tren de Aragua . Eleven people were killed in the operation. The Venezuelan government rejected the accusation, questioned the authenticity of footage released by U.S. authorities, and denied any connection to narcotrafficking.

Adding pressure, the U.S. Department of Justice has doubled the bounty for information leading to Maduro’s arrest, raising it to $50 million under charges tied to drug trafficking. Maduro, in turn, insists that Venezuela is not a drug-producing country.

Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello, one of Maduro’s closest allies, stated that Venezuela does not seek war but must remain prepared for it. Meanwhile, the Pentagon emphasised that “the ball is in Maduro’s court”, framing U.S. actions as part of its anti-narcotics mission. Analysts have warned of the risk of a proxy conflict or, at a minimum, a sharp diplomatic and military escalation between Caracas and Washington.

This standoff marks a critical juncture in U.S.–Venezuela relations, with rhetoric hardening and military deployments multiplying, leaving the hemisphere closely watching whether the next step will be negotiation, sanctions , or confrontation.

“It has been a disgrace to place a nuclear submarine aimed at peaceful people, thinking these people will tremble,” Maduro said.

The Venezuelan president also delivered a defiant message to his own citizens and the wider international community.

“No one is going to humiliate Venezuela. We will not accept the humiliation from the gringo empire. We will never accept the humiliation from the gringo empire. Never,” he added.

The comments come at a time of renewed friction between Caracas and Washington, with U.S. officials maintaining that Venezuela continues to pose regional security challenges, while Maduro frames the standoff as an existential struggle for sovereignty.

"I would say they're going to be in trouble. We'll let them know about that. We heard that happened, but it wasn't really over," Trump told reporters at the Oval Office.

"If they do put us in a dangerous position, they'll be shot down," he continued.

Trump, in addition, denied the possibility of a 'regime change' in Venezuela, as suggested by the government of Nicolas Maduro, while labelling the country's 2024 election as 'strange' where Maduro won and extended his time in office.

"I can only say that billions of dollars of drugs are pouring into our country from Venezuela [...] Venezuela has been a very bad actor and we understand that. And when you look at that boat, you see the bags of whatever it is. Those bags, you know what those bags represent? Hundreds of thousands of dead people in the United States, that's what they represent," Trump added.

He described it as the “most brutal, extravagant, and unjustified military threat in the history of Latin America and the Caribbean.”

Maduro directly addressed Trump, warning him against advisers he said were pushing for military escalation, specifically singling out U.S. Senator Marco Rubio.

“President Trump, you have to be careful because Marco Rubio wants to stain your hands with blood with South American blood, Caribbean blood, Venezuelan blood. They want to drag you into a bloodbath and that your last name be stained with blood for centuries,” Maduro said.

The Venezuelan leader argued that any U.S. attack would not be limited to his country, but would trigger widespread conflict across South America and the Caribbean.

Maduro insisted Venezuela’s defence plan, developed over 20 years, is primarily non-violent, focusing on organisation, training, production, and diplomacy. But he warned that if attacked, Venezuela would declare itself a “Republic in arms.”

“If Venezuela were attacked, it would immediately move into the period of armed struggle in defence of the national territory, history, and people of Venezuela,” he said. “Armed struggle and Republic in arms. From north to south, east to west.”

Maduro said Venezuela keeps communication channels with Washington open, calling dialogue a “golden rule” inherited from his predecessor, Hugo Chávez. Still, he claimed those channels had been “battered” by what he called “gunboat diplomacy.”

On August 7, the U.S. Department of State and the Department of Justice announced an increase in the reward offer under the Narcotics Rewards Program (NRP) for “information leading to the arrest and/or conviction of Nicolás Maduro for violating U.S. narcotics laws.”

U.S. officials accuse Maduro of being “one of the largest narco-traffickers in the world ” and link him to major drug smuggling operations. Washington claims he has been a leader of the Cartel de los Soles, which is alleged to have trafficked drugs into the United States for over a decade.

Attorney General Pam Bondi stated that the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration seized 30 tons of cocaine tied to Maduro and his associates, with nearly seven tons allegedly connected directly to him.

The post included a video featuring First Lady and National Assembly member Cilia Flores de Maduro during her formal recognition by the National Electoral Council (CNE).

In the video, Flores stated, “We will not only work on the main laws that benefit the people, but we will work from the National Assembly to support the policies of President Nicolás Maduro's government.”

The CNE officially proclaimed and awarded the elected governors, national assembly deputies, and members of legislative councils, following nationwide elections held on Sunday, May 25.

On May 19, 2025, Venezuela banned flights from neighbouring Colombia following the arrest of over 30 individuals accused of plotting to destabilise the country ahead of the May 25 elections. The announcement came as an OAS-backed independent panel released a report highlighting serious human rights abuses in Venezuela, citing increased repression since the July 28 presidential election. Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello stated the flight ban would take immediate effect and extend beyond the election day, when voters are set to choose Governors and National Assembly members. However, Colombia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs noted that Venezuela had indicated flights would resume the day after the election.

Release of veteran wrongfully detained in Venezuela

The family of Joseph St. Clair, a U.S. Air Force veteran wrongfully detained in Venezuela since November 2024, announced his release on Tuesday. St. Clair, a four-tour Afghanistan War veteran from Hansville, Washington, had gone missing while receiving PTSD treatment in Colombia. His parents expressed overwhelming joy and gratitude, though details of his release were not disclosed. They credited former President Donald Trump and his team—including Ambassador Ric Grenell, Adam Boehler, and Special Presidential Envoy for Hostage Affairs Sebastian Gorka—for securing his freedom, but declined further comment to Fox News Digital.

Venezuela-India partnership

On Monday, Venezuelan Foreign Affairs Minister Yvan Gil met with Indian Ambassador Ashok Babu in Caracas to reaffirm the longstanding cooperative relationship between Venezuela and India, which spans 65 years of diplomatic ties. Gil described the meeting as productive, focusing on strengthening collaboration in political, energy, and trade sectors, and emphasised both nations’ shared commitment to dialogue and understanding in multilateral forums. The discussion also aimed to further solidify their alliance and expand strategic cooperation based on converging international perspectives.

Parliamentary and regional elections

Ten months after his contested reelection, Venezuela’s authoritarian President Nicolas Maduro is seeking to consolidate his grip on power in Sunday’s parliamentary and regional elections, which the opposition is boycotting. Voters are set to elect 24 state governors and 285 national assembly members, though turnout is expected to be low. Disillusionment among opposition supporters has deepened since the disputed July presidential election, where Maduro claimed a third term despite opposition tallies indicating a clear victory for their candidate, Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia.

Visa exemption

The visa exemption agreement for holders of diplomatic and service passports between Kyrgyzstan and Venezuela has officially come into effect, according to Kyrgyzstan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Signed on September 27, 2024, in New York, the agreement allows diplomatic and service passport holders from both countries to enter and stay in the other’s territory without a visa for up to 90 days. This follows Kyrgyzstan’s January 2025 parliamentary approval of similar agreements with several countries, including Albania, Montenegro, Cyprus, Venezuela, and Thailand.

The Venezuelan poultry industry, once a major player in Latin America, has faced significant challenges due to economic decline and decreased production. However, recent trends show signs of recovery: chicken production has more than doubled from 209,181 metric tons in 2018 to 477,627 MT now, and per capita egg and chicken consumption has increased by 57% and 22.5%, respectively, from 2022 to 2024. Despite ongoing issues like hyperinflation and difficulties in obtaining import permits for feed, the industry anticipates a 36% production increase by 2025 and is exploring export opportunities to Caribbean nations.

Deportation

Gertrudis Pineda is distraught over her son Oscar, one of 238 Venezuelans deported by the U.S. to El Salvador's maximum-security Cecot prison, accused of being part of the Tren de Aragua gang. Despite the U.S. government's claims of proper vetting, many detainees lack criminal records, leading to criticism of the deportations as unconstitutional. The conditions at Cecot, described as a "black hole of human rights," leave families without information on their loved ones' wellbeing. El Salvador's President Nayib Bukele defends the prison and ongoing crackdowns on gangs, with public support for his policies, despite reports of wrongful detentions.

Gang Violence

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio referred to members of the Tren de Aragua gang as "worse than Al Qaeda" during a visit to Guyana, emphasizing their dangerous reputation as a transnational crime syndicate originating in Venezuelan prisons. He defended the Trump administration's controversial forced deportations of migrants, claiming that those deported were thoroughly vetted by the Department of Homeland Security. Rubio highlighted the gang's significant threat, comparing their danger to that of infamous terrorists. However, some lower US courts have challenged the legality of these deportations, with families of deported individuals alleging they were targeted unjustly.

Rubio warns Venezuela

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio pledged a strong U.S. response if Venezuela attacks Guyana amid a territorial dispute over valuable oil and gas reserves. In his visit to Georgetown, Rubio stated that aggressive actions from Venezuela would be met with consequences, emphasizing that it would be a "very bad day" for the Venezuelan regime. Guyana's President Irfaan Ali expressed appreciation for U.S. support in safeguarding Guyana's sovereignty. The U.S. is enhancing military cooperation with Guyana through intelligence sharing and joint naval exercises, aiming to bolster regional security against Venezuelan claims. The tension follows Venezuela's revival of a century-old dispute coinciding with Guyana's significant oil discoveries.

Maduro calls Rubio 'Imbecile'

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro on Thursday slammed US Secretary of State Marco Rubio as an “imbecile” following the American’s warning to Caracas against attacking its oil-rich neighbor Guyana. “There goes the imbecile Marco Rubio threatening Venezuela from Guyana. No one threatens Venezuela because this is the homeland of the liberators,” Maduro said .

Venezuela has expressed its determination to ensure the release of hundreds of its citizens who were deported by the U.S. to a notorious prison in El Salvador. According to National Assembly leader Jorge Rodríguez, the deportees, numbering 238, were accused of connections to the Tren de Aragua gang, facing potentially harsh conditions in El Salvador's Terrorism Confinement Center. This recent development complicates negotiations between Venezuela and the U.S. regarding sanctions relief and the continuation of Chevron's operations in the country.

Aircraft smuggling

The U.S. Justice Department has initiated a civil forfeiture complaint against a Dassault Falcon 900 EX aircraft, alleging its smuggling from the U.S. and its use to support Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, which violates established sanctions. This aircraft was seized in the Dominican Republic last year, and Maduro's government has labelled the seizure and sanctions as acts of blatant theft and illegality.

Deportations of Venezuelans

A federal judge has mandated the Trump administration to disclose information regarding the deportations of Venezuelans, despite a court order that halted the flights. The administration alleges that the deportees are associated with the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua, classified as a Foreign Terrorist Organization. Despite the judge's order to cease deportations, flights by the administration continued, resulting in the deportation of 261 individuals. The administration maintains that it has the legal authority to move ahead with deportations once the flights are outside U.S. airspace, while the judge has pressed for clarity on specific timelines and legal standings during court proceedings.

Chevron licence

Venezuela's state oil company, PDVSA, has devised strategies to sustain oil production post-Chevron's licence expiration in April. The plans include producing between 105,000 to 138,000 barrels per day of Hamaca heavy crude at the Petropiar project, aiming to balance output between local refineries and non-U.S. export markets. Furthermore, PDVSA intends to process byproducts of vacuum gasoil for domestic gasoline production and increase the recycling effort of imported naphtha to mitigate technical challenges. Analysts speculate that the total oil output in Venezuela could decrease from 900,000 to 700,000 barrels per day in the absence of Chevron, which currently contributes an estimated $200 million monthly to the national economy.

Human rights violation

During the UN Human Rights Council session, independent experts underscored severe human rights violations occurring in Iran, Syria, and Venezuela. In Iran, findings from the Fact-Finding Mission pointed to violent repression following Mahsa Amini's death in 2022, highlighting allegations of torture and mistreatment directed towards children and protesters, with a noticeable absence of trust in the judicial system and a rallying call for accountability measures off the national stage. In Venezuela, the Independent International Fact-Finding Mission relayed ongoing political repression and arbitrary detentions , particularly in the context of the contentious 2024 presidential election, expressing grave concerns regarding electoral integrity and significant rights violations amid protests, including detainee deaths linked to torture — findings which the Venezuelan government dismissed as politically driven.

"This is a regime that is becoming more alone every day, but no less dangerous, because the weaker it is, the more dangerous it tends to be, as it is doing with many people, including my relatives who are being held hostage," he said.

The political climate in Venezuela remains tense. Despite Maduro's inauguration, the opposition, led by figures like Gonzalez Urrutia and Maria Corina Machado, continues to call for mass protests and international intervention due to election fraud.

Digital rights group VE sin Filtro reported that the unblocking of Telegram began with some ISPs on the night of January 12, 2024. By January 13, most providers had restored access.

This situation is not unprecedented, as there was a brief Telegram block during post-election censorship in September 2024. Encrypted messaging service Signal is also currently restricted.

This move sparked an increase in VPN usage as Venezuelans sought to bypass the restrictions. In response, the government extended its censorship to the websites of over 20 VPN providers, including popular services like Proton VPN, NordVPN, Surfshark, ExpressVPN, and IPVanish. Despite this, these VPN services are still operational in the country, according to the providers.

The government has now blocked Canva, a graphic design tool, as well as several security-oriented services like the Tor Browser.

This wave of internet censorship has raised concerns over the increasing control of digital communications in the country, as citizens continue to face difficulties in accessing information and communication platforms.