The measure will last at least four years
EFE (via 14ymedio), Geneva, January 5, 2026 — The Swiss government announced this Monday that it has frozen the assets of Nicolás Maduro and his associates in the country with immediate effect “as a precautionary measure” and in view of the “volatile situation” created after the arrest of the Venezuelan leader by U.S. armed forces.
Swiss authorities stated in a communiqué that the asset freeze will not affect any member of the current Venezuelan government.
With this decision, which will remain in effect for four years, the government sought to ensure that no assets that may have been acquired illicitly are transferred out of Switzerland under the current circumstances.
The government sought to ensure that no assets have been acquired illicitly
Swiss authorities clarified that the reasons behind Maduro’s fall, or the question of whether it constituted a violation of international law, did not play a decisive role in the decision to block the funds.
“The decisive factor is that a collapse of power has occurred and that it is now possible for the country of origin to initiate judicial proceedings in relation to assets acquired illicitly,” the authorities explained.
Switzerland invoked a federal law that provides for the freezing of assets belonging to “politically exposed” foreigners when there are reasons to assume they were acquired through corruption, criminal mismanagement, or other serious crimes.
Switzerland invoked a federal law that provides for the freezing of assets belonging to “politically exposed” foreigners.
If the latter is confirmed in future judicial proceedings, “Switzerland will strive to ensure that they benefit the Venezuelan people.”
Switzerland recalled that, following Maduro’s arrest, it has called for de-escalation, restraint, and compliance with international law, “including the prohibition on the use of force and the principle of respect for territorial integrity.”
The country has “repeatedly” offered its good offices to all parties to help find a peaceful solution to the political crisis in Venezuela, it noted.
Translated by Regina Anavy
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