马杜罗：从公交车司机到查韦斯继任者，再到美国囚犯

Core Viewpoint - Nicolás Maduro, the former president of Venezuela, has been arrested by U.S. special forces on drug-related charges, marking a significant shift in his political trajectory after over 13 years in power. His leadership has been characterized by economic collapse and mass emigration of Venezuelans seeking better conditions abroad [3][10]. Background and Rise to Power - Maduro, born on November 23, 1962, began his political career as a student leader and later became a bus driver and union leader, gaining prominence as a loyal supporter of Hugo Chávez [3][5]. - He joined Chávez's political movement in the mid-1990s and quickly rose through the ranks, eventually becoming foreign minister and then vice president [5][7]. Presidency and Challenges - After Chávez's death in 2013, Maduro was elected president, but his tenure was immediately marred by crises, including violent protests and a significant loss of control in the National Assembly in 2015 [7][10]. - Maduro's government faced accusations of human rights violations and was investigated by the International Criminal Court for crimes against humanity due to the violent suppression of protests [8][10]. Economic Decline - By 2018, Venezuela's economy was in free fall, with hyperinflation and severe shortages of basic goods. Oil production plummeted to under 400,000 barrels per day, a drastic decline from previous levels [8][10]. Political Maneuvering - In the 2018 elections, Maduro faced little competition, and his legitimacy was questioned internationally as many countries refused to recognize the results [10][11]. - Despite international sanctions and internal opposition, Maduro managed to maintain power through military support and strategic political reforms, although these efforts were met with skepticism [10][11]. Recent Developments - Following the 2024 elections, Maduro was declared the winner, but opposition claims indicated he faced a significant defeat. Protests were met with repression, and he began a third presidential term amid escalating tensions with the U.S. [11][13]. - The situation intensified with the U.S. military presence in the Caribbean and aggressive actions against alleged drug trafficking, leading to a precarious position for Maduro's government [13].