The Swiss government announced on January 5, 2026, that it has immediately frozen all assets held in Switzerland by deposed Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his close associates. The decision follows the dramatic seizure of Maduro in Caracas, Venezuela, during a U.S. military operation over the weekend, after which he was transported to New York to face longstanding federal charges related to narcotrafficking, money laundering, and other offenses. Swiss authorities described the move as a precautionary measure to prevent the potential transfer or dissipation of any illicitly acquired funds amid the rapidly evolving crisis in Venezuela.

The announcement came in an official statement from Bern, which highlighted the "volatile" nature of the situation in Venezuela following Maduro's capture and the subsequent unrest in Caracas. Swiss officials emphasized their intent to safeguard assets that may have been obtained through corrupt or illegal means, aligning with the country's longstanding policy of freezing funds linked to politically exposed persons under international pressure or legal scrutiny. Switzerland has previously imposed similar asset freezes on Venezuelan officials and entities in response to U.S. and European sanctions targeting the Maduro regime for alleged human rights abuses, corruption, and undermining democratic processes.

The timing of the freeze directly ties to the U.S.-led action that removed Maduro from power, marking a significant escalation in international efforts to hold the former leader accountable. Switzerland's State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO), which oversees sanctions implementation, indicated that the measure would remain in place pending further developments, including the outcome of Maduro's legal proceedings in the United States. The government also stated it is closely monitoring events in Venezuela, where Acting President Delcy Rodríguez has taken charge amid reports of clashes and uncertainty over the political transition.

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This development adds to the growing international response to Maduro's detention, with several countries and organizations expressing concerns over the legality of the U.S. operation while others have welcomed steps to address alleged corruption. Switzerland's action reinforces its role as a key financial hub that enforces targeted sanctions, even as it maintains a neutral stance in broader geopolitical conflicts. The freeze is expected to impact any Swiss bank accounts, real estate, or other holdings linked to Maduro or his inner circle, contributing to the mounting financial pressure on the former administration as Venezuela navigates its interim leadership and potential path to new elections.

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