Venezuela Arrests Three Americans, Others in Alleged Maduro Assassination Plot

Venezuela Arrests Three Americans, Others in Alleged Maduro Assassination Plot

Venezuelan authorities have arrested two Spaniards, three U.S. citizens, and a Czech national in connection with an alleged plot to destabilize the country, including plans to assassinate President Nicolás Maduro, according to Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello.

During a press conference on Saturday, Cabello claimed that the two Spaniards were linked to Spain’s secret service and involved in a conspiracy to kill a Venezuelan mayor.

However, Spanish officials have denied these allegations. Cabello also accused the U.S. citizens and Czech national of participating in terrorist activities and plotting the assassination of Maduro and other Venezuelan officials.

The arrests come amidst heightened tensions between Venezuela, Spain, and the United States, particularly following Venezuela’s controversial presidential election in July.

A U.S. State Department spokesperson confirmed that one U.S. military member had been detained in Venezuela, acknowledging reports of two additional U.S. citizens also being held. The U.S. firmly denied any involvement in the alleged coup plot.

Venezuela’s government has seized 400 rifles reportedly originating from the U.S. as part of its crackdown on what it describes as destabilization efforts aimed at the country’s resources.

In response, Spain’s foreign ministry has requested further information from Venezuela, with Spanish officials demanding access to the detained Spaniards to verify their identities and the charges against them. The Spanish nationals were reportedly arrested while taking photos in the town of Puerto Ayacucho.

Diplomatic relations between Spain and Venezuela have deteriorated in recent weeks. Venezuela recalled its ambassador to Spain after a Spanish official referred to Maduro’s government as a “dictatorship,” further straining ties after the disputed election.