U.S. indicts Maduro on torture charges in Venezuela case

U.S. authorities have expanded their criminal case against Nicolás Maduro with a fresh indictment that includes torture charges, according to court filings made public this week. The former Venezuelan president now faces multiple counts related to his administration's conduct, as Washington continues to pursue legal action against Maduro despite his continued control of Venezuela's government.

The torture allegations add to a series of charges previously leveled against Maduro by U.S. prosecutors, who have accused him of overseeing widespread human rights abuses during his tenure as Venezuela's leader. American officials have long criticized Maduro's government for suppressing political opposition and engaging in extrajudicial killings and arbitrary detention.

Maduro has denied all accusations against him, characterizing U.S. legal actions as politically motivated attempts to undermine his authority. The Venezuelan government has rejected American jurisdiction over its officials, describing the charges as part of a broader campaign to destabilize the country.

The indictment underscores ongoing tensions between the United States and Venezuela over governance and human rights issues. While Maduro remains in power in Caracas, the criminal charges complicate any potential negotiations between Washington and the Venezuelan administration.