US Sanctions 16 Venezuelan Officials Over Election

The United States has imposed sanctions on 16 Venezuelan officials following the disputed presidential election on July 28, which was marked by allegations of voter fraud and violent repression. The sanctions target key figures, including Supreme Court President Caryslia Rodriguez and National Electoral Council members, accused of facilitating President Nicolás Maduro's controversial win and the subsequent crackdown. Opposition candidate Edmundo González, recognized by the US and other countries as the true winner, has fled to Spain amid threats and an arrest warrant. The US Treasury's measures aim to pressure Maduro's government to release accurate election results and engage in democratic reforms. Despite these sanctions, the US has not targeted Venezuela's energy sector, which remains critical to its economy. The sanctions include asset freezes and travel bans for the named officials.