On 5 January 2026, the Federal Council decided, with immediate effect, to freeze all assets held in Switzerland by Nicolás Maduro and other persons associated with him. Through this measure, the Federal Council aims to prevent an outflow of assets. The asset freeze does not apply to members of the current Venezuelan government. Should future legal proceedings establish that the funds were acquired illicitly, Switzerland will seek to ensure that they are used for the benefit of the Venezuelan people. The asset freeze is an additional measure to the sanctions against Venezuela that have been in force since 2018 under the Embargo Act.
On 3 January 2026, Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro was arrested by US forces in Caracas and transferred to the United States. The situation is unstable, and several scenarios are possible in the coming days and weeks. Switzerland is closely monitoring the situation in Venezuela. It has called for de-escalation, restraint, and compliance with international law, including the prohibition of the use of force and the principle of respect for territorial integrity. Switzerland has also repeatedly offered its good offices to all parties in order to find a peaceful solution to the situation.
The asset freeze enters into force on 5 January 2026 with immediate effect and will remain valid for a period of four years, unless decided otherwise.