The United States has put a $50 million bounty on Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro’s head, alleging his involvement in drug trafficking and facilitating illegal immigration from Iran. This action has drawn international attention, with Venezuela’s foreign minister denouncing it as absurd.
Some analysts suggest that the US move may be a continuation of a long-standing conflict, possibly fueled by the past actions of Maduro’s mentor, Hugo Chavez. Chavez, who came to power in 1999, was a fierce critic of the United States.
**Chavez’s Confrontation with the US**
The relationship between Venezuela and the US deteriorated significantly during Chavez’s presidency. Chavez consistently attacked US leaders, including calling President George W. Bush the devil during a UN speech in 2006, accusing him of global dominance.
**Harsh Words for US Presidents**
Chavez’s criticism of US leaders extended to President Barack Obama, whom he called a ‘joker’ in 2011, in response to Obama’s criticism of Venezuela’s ties with Iran and Cuba. Chavez accused the US of trying to gain political advantage by attacking Venezuela.
**Maduro’s Political Lineage**
Maduro, a key figure in the Chavez government from 1999 to 2013, was selected as Chavez’s successor. Following Chavez’s death, Maduro became president.