Swiss authorities have moved swiftly to freeze assets belonging to Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro and his close associates, following his arrest by U.S. forces in Caracas and subsequent transfer to the United States.
The Federal Council announced on Monday that the measure, effective immediately and set to last four years, is designed to prevent the outflow of potentially illicit assets. The freeze supplements sanctions already in place against Venezuela since 2018.
Officials clarified that the restrictions do not affect members of Venezuela’s current government. Any funds identified as illicitly acquired will be sought for return to benefit the Venezuelan people. The council described the situation in Venezuela as volatile, emphasizing that various developments could unfold in the coming days and weeks.
“The Federal Council wants to ensure that any illicitly acquired assets cannot be transferred out of Switzerland in the current situation,” the statement said. Authorities also urged restraint, de-escalation, and expressed readiness to offer mediation toward a peaceful resolution.
No figures were provided regarding the assets held by Maduro or his associates, and Swiss authorities have not yet responded to requests for comment on their value. The freeze is intended as a precautionary measure, applying to foreign politically exposed persons in light of recent events.
