The Swiss government has announced the immediate freezing of all Swiss-based assets linked to former Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro and individuals connected to him, a move aimed at preventing any transfer or concealment of funds.
In a statement quoted by The Guardian UK, Swiss authorities said the Federal Council approved the asset freeze with immediate effect. Officials explained that the measure is designed to stop assets from being moved out of Switzerland while legal processes are ongoing.
However, the Swiss government clarified that the freeze does not apply to individuals who are currently serving in the Venezuelan government.
The statement further noted that if future legal proceedings establish that the frozen funds were acquired illegally, Switzerland will seek ways to ensure the money is returned for the benefit of the Venezuelan people.
Meanwhile, DAILY POST reported that Maduro on Monday pleaded not guilty to multiple charges brought against him by the United States. The allegations include drug trafficking, illegal weapons possession, and involvement in narcoterrorism.
Maduro was reportedly arrested by US military forces two days earlier in an operation authorized by President Donald Trump, an action that sparked widespread international reaction.
He was formally arraigned at a federal court in Manhattan on Monday, where proceedings lasted just over 30 minutes. During the hearing, Maduro was asked to confirm his identity and acknowledge the four charges filed against him.
The 63-year-old told US District Judge Alvin Hellerstein that he still considers himself the president of Venezuela. He also claimed he was unlawfully taken from his residence in Caracas, describing himself as a prisoner of war.
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