Nicolás Maduro Sworn in for Controversial Third Term

Nicolás Maduro was sworn in for a controversial third term as Venezuela's president, extending his rule until 2031. The inauguration took place amid significant allegations of electoral fraud, with opposition leader Edmundo González Urrutia claiming a landslide victory based on independent monitoring of the July elections. The U.S. has offered a $25 million reward for information leading to Maduro's arrest, highlighting international disapproval of his presidency. Tensions escalated with the recent detention of opposition leader María Corina Machado, who accused the government of orchestrating violent attacks against her. Despite widespread protests and calls for democracy, Maduro vowed to uphold the Constitution and promised a new era of peace and prosperity, while his administration continues to face sanctions from the U.S. and EU. The legitimacy of Maduro's presidency remains hotly contested, with many in the international community refusing to recognize the election results.