Venezuelan Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello has made explosive claims that a CIA-backed conspiracy to assassinate President Nicolás Maduro and commit acts of terrorism was recently uncovered. Cabello asserted that several foreign nationals, including a U.S. serviceman, were among those arrested in connection with the alleged plot.
According to Cabello, the plot involved a diverse group of suspects: two Spanish nationals, José María Basoa Valdovinos and Andrés Martínez Adasme; one Czech national; and three U.S. citizens, including an active member of the U.S. military, Wilbert Castañeda. Castañeda, a member of a Navy SEAL detachment decorated for missions in Afghanistan and Iraq, was reportedly apprehended on September 1. The Venezuelan security forces also reportedly seized several hundred military-grade firearms.
Cabello claimed that the operation aimed to assassinate President Maduro, Executive Vice President Delcy Rodríguez, and himself. He further alleged that the conspirators planned to incite mass prison riots, attack public utilities and transport infrastructure, and stage a false-flag attack on the Argentine embassy in Caracas.
The U.S. Department of State confirmed the detention of several American citizens, including an active serviceman, but vehemently denied any U.S. government involvement in the alleged conspiracy. A spokesperson for the State Department “categorically” rejected the claims of a U.S. role in the plot, characterizing the allegations as unfounded.
In response to the accusations, the Spanish government has denied any involvement of its nationals or its intelligence agency in the alleged conspiracy. The Spanish authorities dismissed the claims made by Cabello as baseless. The claims come amid heightened political tensions in Venezuela. President Maduro’s re-election in July was marred by accusations of electoral fraud from opposition groups and international observers, including the U.S., EU, and the G7, who have refused to recognize Maduro’s victory. In response, Venezuela has accused Washington of attempting to orchestrate a coup.
Cabello’s allegations also reflect broader geopolitical tensions and ongoing disputes between Venezuela and Western powers. The Venezuelan government has frequently accused foreign nations, particularly the U.S., of interfering in its domestic affairs and supporting opposition groups. The Venezuelan government’s claims about a potential assassination plot and terrorist activities underscore the ongoing volatility and complex political landscape in the region. The international community remains divided on the situation in Venezuela, with different nations and organizations taking varying stances on the legitimacy of Maduro’s government and the country’s political crisis.
As the situation develops, it is crucial for both Venezuelan and international authorities to provide clear evidence and engage in transparent investigations to address these serious allegations. The claims, if proven true, would have significant implications for international relations and regional stability. The international response to these allegations will be closely watched, as they could further impact diplomatic relations and the ongoing discourse surrounding Venezuela’s political and economic challenges.
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