The Maduro administration sued for access to the gold to fund pandemic relief.
The UK maintains a "no recognition" stance to pressure for a democratic transition. ⏳ Recent Historical Context Disputed Venezuelan Gold Worth $1.8B in Bank of...
Former opposition leader Juan Guaidó (recognized by the UK as interim president until late 2022) successfully argued to keep the gold out of Maduro's control. The Maduro administration sued for access to the
The dispute became a years-long legal "tug-of-war" in the London courts. The dispute became a years-long legal "tug-of-war" in
Worth over $3 billion (£2.2bn) due to the rising price of gold, which has nearly doubled since 2021.
Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper confirmed that the gold will stay in storage until a government is officially recognized by the UK.
Britain continues to hold over in Venezuelan gold at the Bank of England as of April 2026. The assets remain frozen despite the reported ousting of Nicolás Maduro in early 2026, as the UK government still refuses formal recognition of any current Venezuelan leadership. 🏛️ Current Legal Status