Venezuelan authorities have arrested a fourth American citizen, linked to an alleged plot to assassinate President Nicolás Maduro.
At a Glance
- Venezuela arrested a fourth U.S. citizen over an alleged plot to assassinate President Nicolás Maduro.
- The American was detained in Caracas for taking photos of sensitive sites like electrical installations, oil facilities, and military units.
- Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello claimed the man was part of a broader plot against Venezuela, including plans to assassinate Maduro and other officials.
- The U.S. State Department denied any involvement in a plot to overthrow Maduro and called the claims categorically false.
- Six other foreigners, including three Americans, two Spaniards, and a Czech, were also arrested recently in Venezuela.
Fourth American Detained in Caracas
The fourth detained American was apprehended in Caracas for allegedly taking photographs of sensitive locations. These sites included electrical installations, oil facilities, and military units. Venezuelan Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello asserted that the individual was involved in a wider conspiracy against the nation, which aimed to assassinate President Nicolás Maduro and other top officials. – Source
The U.S. State Department has strongly denied accusations of involvement in any plot to overthrow Maduro, labeling the allegations as “categorically false.” A spokesperson from the department stated that the U.S. remains committed to achieving a democratic resolution to Venezuela’s ongoing political crisis.
Venezuela said Tuesday it had arrested a fourth U.S. citizen over what it claims was a plot to assassinate President Nicolás Maduro in the aftermath of elections the opposition claims he stole. https://t.co/krv3a0VgC5
— CBS News (@CBSNews) September 17, 2024
International Reactions and Rising Tensions
In addition to the detained American, Venezuelan authorities have also arrested six other foreigners in recent operations. Among them are three Americans, two Spaniards, and one Czech national. One of the Americans was identified as U.S. Navy sailor Wilbert Joseph Castaneda. Washington, Madrid, and Prague have all demanded information regarding their detained citizens from the Venezuelan government.
“taking photos of electrical installations, oil facilities, military units,” – Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello – Link
The political climate between Venezuela and several Western nations has become increasingly tense following this spate of arrests. The United States continues to recognize opposition figure Edmundo González Urrutia as the legitimate president of Venezuela, a stance shared by Spain and the European Union. This recognition has been a point of significant contention with Maduro’s government.
Fourth U.S. citizen detained in alleged plot to kill Nicolas Maduro, Venezuela’s government sayshttps://t.co/S6lbigAx6o pic.twitter.com/YvHng4H00u
— The Washington Times (@WashTimes) September 17, 2024
Claims of Confessions and Further Allegations
Maduro’s administration claims that all arrested individuals have confessed to their involvement in the alleged plot. The administration has accused the CIA, Spain’s intelligence agency, organized crime groups, sex workers, and opposition members of orchestrating the conspiracy. Such allegations have only served to heighten an already charged atmosphere.
“aware of unconfirmed reports” of an arrest of a fourth American, adding that “any claims of U.S. involvement in a plot to overthrow Maduro are categorically false. The United States continues to support a democratic solution to the political crisis in Venezuela.” – State Department spokesperson – Source
As the international community continues to react, Venezuela has issued several diplomatic warnings. The Venezuelan government has recalled its ambassador to Madrid and summoned Spain’s envoy for discussions after a Spanish minister accused Maduro of heading a dictatorship. In retaliation, Venezuela has warned Spain against further interference in its internal affairs. Venezuelan Foreign Minister Yvan Gil has urged Spain to adjust its stance toward Venezuela, cautioning against future aggression.
Sources:
- Venezuela says 4th American arrested over alleged “plot” against Maduro
- Venezuela says it arrested fourth U.S. citizen in roundup of foreigners