WEB DESK: Nicolas Maduro, Venezuela’s ousted leader, appeared in a New York court facing drug charges after a dramatic U.S. operation led to his capture in Caracas. In a bold intervention, U.S. Special Forces breached Maduro’s security at his safe house, spiriting him and his wife, Cilia Flores, to the United States.
Maduro stands accused of orchestrating a cocaine trafficking network linked to groups like Mexico’s Sinaloa cartel and Colombia’s FARC rebels. The 63-year-old denies the allegations, calling it a cover for U.S. ambitions over Venezuela’s massive oil reserves, which have suffered decline due to mismanagement and sanctions.
Acting President Delcy Rodriguez, initially condemning the capture as an act of imperialism, later expressed willingness for cooperation with the Trump administration. Trump, openly critical of Maduro, affirmed interest in Venezuela’s oil assets and vowed further measures if no progress is made on opening their industry and curbing narcotics.
Globally, reactions to the unprecedented operation have been mixed. Russia, China, and Venezuela’s allies denounced the U.S. actions, while Washington’s partners cautiously emphasized legal adherence. The U.N. Security Council prepared to debate its legality.
Currently, Maduro is held under harsh conditions at the Metropolitan Detention Centre in New York. The future for Venezuela remains uncertain, with Maduro’s allies still in power and no visible military defection despite speculated internal conspiracies. Tensions persist as the nation and international community watch closely.
