Official statements from the U.S. Department of State or White House

Maduro Announces Arrest of Seven Foreign Mercenaries, Including Two U.S. Citizens, Ahead of Inauguration

Jan 7, 2025, 11:49 PM

Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro announced the arrest of seven foreign individuals, including two U.S. citizens, two Colombians, and three Ukrainians, labeling them as 'mercenaries' involved in alleged terrorist activities. Maduro claimed the group was planning violent actions against the country, coinciding with heightened security measures ahead of his presidential inauguration on January 10, 2025. The U.S. citizens were described as 'very high-level,' though no further details or evidence were provided. This announcement follows broader claims by Maduro of capturing 125 mercenaries from 25 nationalities in recent months. Maduro also activated the Organs of Direction for Integral Defense (ODDI) to ensure national security. The arrests have intensified tensions in Venezuela as the country prepares for Maduro's third term, amid contested election results and international scrutiny.