• The U.S. government has offered a $25 million reward for information leading to the arrest or conviction of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro.
• This announcement coincided with Maduro's controversial inauguration for a third term, amid allegations of election manipulation.
• Former National Security Adviser John Bolton advised incoming Secretary of State Marco Rubio to maintain pressure on Maduro's regime.
• The situation remains tense as Maduro faces international opposition and claims of human rights abuses.
• The U.S. supports opposition leader Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia, recognizing him as the legitimate president-elect.

The United States has announced a lucrative **$25 million reward for information** that could lead to the arrest or conviction of Nicolás Maduro, Venezuela's controversial leader. This announcement aligns with Maduro's swearing-in for a disputed third term, a moment underscored by accusations of corruption, human rights violations, and involvement in drug trafficking. The announcement reflects ongoing U.S. efforts to pressure Maduro, whom the Biden administration and other international actors accuse of **stealing** the recent election. Former National Security Adviser John Bolton emphasized, "One piece of advice I would give to Rubio is to ensure that Maduro does not believe he has won," highlighting the importance of maintaining a strong stance against the Venezuelan leader ([Newsweek](https://www.newsweek.com/john-boltons-advice-rubio-venezuela-dont-let-maduro-think-he-won-2012809)).

Bolton has been a key figure in shaping U.S. policy toward Venezuela, particularly during the Trump administration. He acknowledged the challenges faced in previous attempts to oust Maduro, drawing parallels to failed efforts in 2019. He warned that losing momentum could empower dictators like Maduro and solidify their control, calling for sustained pressure from the U.S. government as part of a broader strategy against the regime ([Newsweek](https://www.newsweek.com/us-announces-25m-reward-arrest-venezuelas-maduro-2013170)).

The current political landscape is further complicated by the international community's divided stance on Maduro's leadership. While countries like Russia, China, and Iran have shown support for his government, the U.S. has been vocal in backing the opposition. The White House recently reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the Venezuelan people's democratic aspirations while holding Maduro accountable for his administration's actions. The situation remains precarious, with ongoing protests anticipated from opposition groups throughout the country, juxtaposed against government-backed rallies by pro-Maduro supporters.

This scenario underscores a critical moment in Venezuela's political history, where the opposition leader, Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia, continues to assert his claim to the presidency, insisting on returning from exile despite being targeted with a $100,000 bounty on his head. The international view on the legitimacy of Maduro's leadership continues to evolve, with the U.S., Argentina, and Uruguay officially recognizing Gonzalez as the legitimate president-elect, further isolating Maduro on the global stage. As the days unfold, the stability of Venezuela rests in a delicate balance, influenced by both internal and external pressures.

For continuous updates on this developing story, follow the links to the articles from [Newsweek](https://www.newsweek.com/us-announces-25m-reward-arrest-venezuelas-maduro-2013170) and [Newsweek](https://www.newsweek.com/john-boltons-advice-rubio-venezuela-dont-let-maduro-think-he-won-2012809).