United States punishes Venezuelan President's wife and ministers

WASHINGTON (Reuters) – The United States has imposed new sanctions on the wife of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and key members of his government, including the deputy president and the defense minister.

Venezuelan Vice President Delcy Rodriguez and Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino were among the six, according to a statement released Tuesday by the US Treasury Department. Three entities and one aircraft have also been listed.

"President Maduro has relied on his entourage to maintain his grip on power, while his regime is systematically plundering what's left of Venezuela's wealth," said Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin.

The Trump administration has steadily increased sanctions against Maduro's left-wing government for repression against opposition, widespread corruption and policies that have shattered the economy.

Hyperinflation at 200,000% and shortages of staple foods and medications resulted in massive emigration.

First Lady Cilia Flores is a lawyer and former Attorney General who also headed the country's legislature. In 2015, she was launched in the eyes of the international public when two of her nephews were arrested for conspiring to smuggle cocaine into the United States.

Padrino, 55, was appointed Minister of Defense in 2014.

The Treasury said that Padrino contributed to the loyalty of the army to the Maduro regime, while Rodriguez helped him maintain power and consolidate his authoritarian regime.

The Venezuelan Ministry of Information did not immediately respond to the request for comment.