Brian A. Nichols: “I have supported these sanctions because there is no shortage of individuals in Venezuela who deserve them.”

That is why President Biden's designation of fighting corruption as a core U.S. national security interest resonated in many countries in the Americas.

In addition, accountability for human rights abuses remains one of the main objectives of U.S. foreign policy in Venezuela, and we take every opportunity to highlight the abuses of the Maduro regime.

We believe Venezuelan-led, comprehensive negotiations represent the best mechanism available to restore Venezuelan democracy and the rule of law.

We are willing to modify our sanctions policy in response to progress toward negotiations and concrete steps by the Maduro regime in negotiations.