Trump Doubles $50M Reward for Maduro Capture

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WASHINGTON – The Trump administration has announced a $50 million reward for information leading to the arrest of Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro, citing his role in international drug trafficking and threats to U.S. national security.

Attorney General Pam Bondi revealed the increased bounty on Thursday, highlighting Maduro’s alleged involvement with dangerous criminal networks. “Maduro uses foreign terrorist organizations like Tren de Aragua, the Sinaloa cartel, and the Cartel of the Suns to bring deadly drugs and violence into our country,” Bondi said in a statement posted on the social media platform X.

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has seized over 30 tons of cocaine linked to Maduro and his associates. Bondi noted that nearly seven tons of that cocaine are tied directly to Maduro himself, representing a significant source of income for the cartels operating out of Venezuela and Mexico. She further warned that the cocaine trafficked under Maduro’s network is frequently laced with fentanyl, contributing to countless deaths across the United States.

Maduro, 62, has faced multiple federal charges since March 2020 in the Southern District of New York. These charges include narco-terrorism, conspiracy to import cocaine, possession of machine guns and destructive devices, and conspiracy to possess such weapons. The indictment paints a picture of a leader deeply involved in organized crime on an international scale.

Following the initial indictment, the Trump administration offered a $15 million reward for Maduro’s capture. The bounty was increased to $25 million under the Biden administration in January 2025. However, the Trump administration has now doubled the reward, signalling renewed focus on holding Maduro accountable.

“The Department of Justice has seized more than $700 million worth of Maduro-linked assets, including two private jets, nine vehicles, and other property,” Bondi added. “Despite these efforts, Maduro’s reign of terror continues unabated.”

The move comes amid ongoing concerns about Venezuela’s role as a hub for drug trafficking organizations that funnel narcotics into the United States. The federal government stresses the importance of disrupting these operations to curb the flow of illicit drugs and reduce drug-related violence.

Bondi reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to justice, stating: “Under President Trump’s leadership, Maduro will not escape justice, and he will be held accountable for his despicable crimes.”

The announcement is part of a broader strategy to tackle drug trafficking and protect American communities from the harm caused by narcotics smuggled into the country. It also highlights the government’s continued focus on foreign criminal networks that directly impact public safety in the U.S.

This latest reward increase serves as a signal to informants and the international community that the U.S. government remains resolute in pursuing those responsible for drug trafficking and associated violence.

No further details have been provided regarding how the increased bounty will be administered or the scope of international cooperation expected in the effort to apprehend Maduro.