Nicolas Maduro Captured: US Military Operation Sparks Global Reactions
Overview of Maduro's Capture
On Saturday, Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his spouse, Cilia Flores, were taken to New York following their capture during a US military operation, as reported by various news outlets.
President Donald Trump announced that the US military executed a significant strike against Maduro earlier that day. He stated that the US intends to control Venezuela and its substantial oil reserves until a proper transition occurs.
Trump also shared a social media post featuring an image of a blindfolded and handcuffed Maduro en route to the US.
Nicolas Maduro on board the USS Iwo Jima. pic.twitter.com/omF2UpDJhA
— The White House (@WhiteHouse) January 3, 2026
Accusations and Reactions
The US has accused Maduro of engaging in narco-terrorism and drug trafficking, claims that the Venezuelan administration vehemently denies.
In response to the US actions, the Venezuelan government labeled it as military aggression and demanded the immediate release of Maduro and Flores.
Following these events, the Indian government issued a warning to its citizens, advising against all non-essential travel to Venezuela. They urged Indians currently in Venezuela to exercise extreme caution and maintain communication with the Indian Embassy in Caracas via email or emergency phone number.
Details of Maduro's Arrest
Additional Updates:
- Maduro was transported to the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn after arriving by helicopter in Manhattan. A large crowd gathered outside, many waving Venezuelan flags in support. He is expected to face charges related to drugs and weapons in federal court next week.
- While some Venezuelans in the US celebrated his arrest, others protested, chanting slogans like “No War on Venezuela” and “US hands off Latin America” in cities including Washington DC, New York, Boston, and Chicago.
- Maduro, along with his wife, son, and three others, faces multiple charges, including conspiracy related to narco-terrorism and cocaine importation. Authorities allege that drug trafficking organizations collaborated with the Venezuelan government, funneling profits to senior officials.
- New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani condemned the unilateral attack on a sovereign nation, calling it an act of war and a breach of both federal and international law. He emphasized the impact of these actions on New Yorkers, particularly the Venezuelan community.
Venezuelan Government's Response
- Venezuelan Vice President Delcy Rodríguez characterized Maduro's capture as a kidnapping and a breach of international law, asserting that Maduro remains the legitimate president of Venezuela. She urged citizens to prepare to defend their country against this aggression.
- Since late August, the US has increased its military presence off the Venezuelan coast, claiming it aims to combat drug trafficking, with a focus on Venezuela. The US does not recognize Maduro's government.