The other life of the US soldier accused of betting on Maduro's removal
BBC News has profiled the active-duty US soldier accused by federal prosecutors of placing bets on the removal of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro. Investigators allege he used prediction markets while serving in a unit with access to classified intelligence. He denies the charges.
According to the indictment, the enlisted soldier stationed at a base in the Carolinas placed about 180,000 dollars on contracts tied to Maduro's removal over the past six months. Some positions were opened on on-chain platforms similar to Polymarket.
Federal prosecutors note the soldier's unit had access to briefings on Caribbean and Latin America operations. The Pentagon was reportedly aware of the investigation but declined to comment publicly.
The case is expected to reignite debate about Venezuela's elections and Washington's pressure campaign. The Maduro government called the affair 'evidence of direct US interference', while the White House framed it as an isolated breach by an individual.
More from South America
Global forest loss slows, but El Nino fires could threaten progress
Global tree-cover loss fell about 9 per cent in 2025 compared with the previous year, according to fresh Global Forest Watch data, but scientists warn El Nino-driven Amazon fires could reverse the gains. Brazil's trajectory will be decisive.
Three dead after monster truck crashes into crowd
A monster truck crashed into a crowd at a show in Colombia, killing at least three people and injuring 38. The incident raises fresh concerns about public safety at large events.
Colombia announces record $1.4 million bounty for rebel leader blamed in bomb attack
Colombia's government announced a record $1.4 million bounty for a rebel commander known as "Marlon," blamed for orchestrating a bomb attack that killed 20 people. The extraordinary reward underscores the government's intensified campaign against armed groups destabilizing the nation.