Sanctions Package Targets Seven Maduro‑Family Members and Business Partner The Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control announced penalties on seven individuals linked to the Malpica Flores clan, including Eloisa Flores de Malpica, Carlos Evelio Malpica Torrealba, Iriamni Malpica Flores, Damaris del Carmen Hurtado Perez, Erica Patricia Malpica Hurtado, and Panamanian businessman Ramon Carretero, plus reference to previously sanctioned Carlos Erik Malpica Flores [1][2]. The move marks the second round of sanctions in as many weeks, extending pressure on Maduro’s inner circle. All listed individuals are described as integral to a financial network that supports the Venezuelan regime.

Treasury Frames Action as Attack on Narco‑Corruption Network OFAC characterized the sanctions as a strike against a “narco‑corruption structure” that funds Nicolás Maduro’s government, linking the targeted individuals to illicit drug‑trafficking operations [1]. The announcement coincides with a broader U.S. campaign that includes interdiction of drug‑laden vessels in the Caribbean and Pacific. Officials argue that disrupting these financial channels is essential to weakening the regime’s illicit revenue streams.

Congressional Leaders Decry Regime and Endorse Hardline Measures Senator Marco Rubio declared the status quo with Maduro “intolerable,” urging the United States to employ every element of national power against a regime he says collaborates with terrorist groups [2]. Rubio’s remarks echo broader congressional criticism of the administration’s approach, while President Trump announced a “total and complete blockade” of oil tankers linked to Venezuela, signaling a potential escalation toward open conflict [2]. Both leaders framed the sanctions as part of a decisive U.S. response.

U.S. Military Strikes on Suspected Drug Vessels Result in Over 100 Deaths In parallel with the sanctions, U.S. forces have conducted lethal strikes on vessels accused of transporting narcotics, killing more than 100 people across Caribbean and Pacific operations [1][2]. The high casualty count has drawn scrutiny from lawmakers, who question the proportionality and oversight of such actions. The strikes are presented by the administration as complementary to financial sanctions, aiming to dismantle the drug‑smuggling infrastructure.

International Context: Non‑Recognition of Maduro and Regional Tensions The United States, along with most Western allies, continues to refuse recognition of Maduro’s presidency following disputed elections, a stance that underpins the latest punitive measures [1]. Washington’s actions occur amid heightened regional instability, including recent U.S. military moves near Venezuelan waters and ongoing debates over the legitimacy of the regime. The sanctions thus serve both as a punitive tool and a signal of continued diplomatic pressure.