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Tag: Maduro

Maduro Thanks Supporters in First US Jail Post

Nicolas Maduro, the former Venezuelan president who was ousted in January, and his wife Cilia Flores have announced from jail that they remain “steadfast” and “serene” in their first social media message since their capture. The couple has been detained in a Brooklyn jail for nearly three months after U.S. forces stormed their Caracas compound, reportedly without internet or newspapers access.

In a post shared on Maduro’s X account, they expressed gratitude for the messages, emails, letters, and prayers they’ve received. “We are well, steadfast, serene, and in constant prayer,” they said, although it’s uncertain who exactly authored the message on their behalf. They added, “Your love and support lift our spirits and bolster us spiritually.”

A source close to the Venezuelan government told AFP that Maduro spends his time reading the Bible and is called “president” by some fellow detainees at Brooklyn’s Metropolitan Detention Center, a detention facility known for its poor conditions. His family has limited communication to a 15-minute phone call with his lawyers and relatives.

Maduro’s son, Nicolas Maduro Guerra, also known as “Nicolasito,” has publicly stated that his father is in good health, calm, and even exercising in prison. Maduro, who has declared himself a “prisoner of war,” hadn’t spoken publicly since his arraignment in New York on January 5.

“We deeply admire our people’s resilience in tough times, their love, awareness, and solidarity, both within Venezuela and abroad,” the couple added in their Saturday message.

During a one-hour court hearing Thursday, a judge dismissed a defense motion arguing that Maduro and Flores couldn’t afford their legal fees without assistance from the Venezuelan government. Both remained silent during the session. Maduro faces multiple charges, including narco-terrorism conspiracy, drug trafficking conspiracy, possession of weapons and destructive devices, and conspiracy to possess such items.

In January, Maduro was deposed after ruling Venezuela since 2013, pushing the oil-dependent nation to mostly bow to U.S. policies under Donald Trump’s administration. Now, vice president Delcy Rodriguez, who assumed power in Maduro’s absence, is managing the country’s fragile economy, which brims with the world’s largest proven oil reserves yet suffers from severe economic chaos.

Since Maduro’s removal, Rodriguez has enacted a historic amnesty law freeing political prisoners and implemented reforms to oil and mining laws aligned with U.S. demands for access to natural resources. Recently, the U.S. State Department announced the resumption of diplomatic relations with Venezuela, signaling a potential thaw in relations.

March 29, 2026
Maduro’s Case Challenges U.S. Narcoterrorism Law Amid Limited Wins

Venezuela’s detained President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, appear in court with defense attorneys Barry Pollack and Mark Donnelly to face federal charges in the United States, including narco-terrorism, conspiracy, drug trafficking, money laundering, and other allegations. The proceedings took place at the Daniel Patrick Moynihan U.S. Courthouse in Manhattan, New York City, on January 5, 2026, as depicted in a courtroom sketch. — Reuters

– The credibility of witnesses plays a significant role in the trial.
– Two out of three convictions have been overturned.
– Maduro faces charges related to drug trafficking conspiracy.

Ousted Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro is appearing again before a U.S. court Thursday, facing serious criminal allegations, including narcoterrorism—a rarely tested statute with a limited history of successful prosecutions.

Maduro, 63, governed Venezuela from 2013 until he was captured in Caracas by U.S. special forces on January 3. He entered a plea of not guilty on January 5 to all charges brought against him in the United States.

The law under scrutiny, enacted in 2006, targets drug trafficking connected to activities that the U.S. classifies as terrorism. According to a Reuters review of federal court records, only four individuals have been convicted under this statute, with two convictions later reversed due to issues involving witness credibility.

This mixed record illustrates one of the main hurdles prosecutors face: convincing a jury that evidence from cooperating insiders reliably links drug activities to terrorism.

“The key takeaway from these past cases isn’t that the narcoterrorism law is unworkable,” stated Alamdar Hamdani, a partner at Bracewell law firm and former U.S. Attorney in Houston. “It’s that proving a defendant’s knowledge of a terrorism nexus requires evidence of exceptional quality and prosecutorial diligence, leaving no room for mistakes or unverified witness statements.”

Prosecutors have not yet revealed who will testify against Maduro, but a former Venezuelan general indicted alongside him has expressed willingness to cooperate, according to Reuters.

### Maduro Accused of Supporting Colombian Rebels

The narcoterrorism law was created two decades ago to prosecute drug traffickers financing activities considered terrorism by the U.S. Since then, 83 people—including Maduro—have faced charges under this law. Thirty-one have pleaded guilty to narcoterrorism or lesser charges, eight are awaiting trial, and many are outside U.S. custody, based on the review.

Although some convictions have been overturned, this does not impact Maduro’s case, and he faces additional charges, including conspiracy to import cocaine.

A socialist, Maduro is accused of orchestrating a conspiracy where his government officials aided in moving cocaine through Venezuela, collaborating with traffickers such as the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC), designated as a terrorist organization by the U.S. from 1997 to 2021. Maduro and his associates have always denied any wrongdoing, claiming the charges are part of an imperialist plot to harm Venezuela.

His attorney, Barry Pollack, has not responded to inquiries about the history of narcoterrorism trials or potential witnesses. The Manhattan U.S. Attorney’s Office also declined to comment.

### Broad Definition of Terrorism in Law

Narcoterrorism carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 20 years, twice the standard penalty for typical drug trafficking, and can lead to life imprisonment. The law defines terrorism as premeditated, politically motivated violence targeting civilians.

“Legal definitions of terrorism and terrorist acts are broad,” explained Shane Stansbury, a law professor at Duke University and former federal prosecutor.

To secure a conviction, prosecutors must demonstrate that Maduro knew his drug trafficking activities profited a group engaged in terrorist acts, regardless of his intent or motivations.

“Conviction does not require proof of motive,” added Artie McConnell, a former federal prosecutor now with BakerHostetler.

Historically, attempts to prosecute individuals under this statute have resulted in mixed outcomes. For instance, in 2008, an Afghan man with alleged Taliban links was convicted of aiding a DEA informant in purchasing opium and heroin; however, a 2021 appeals court vacated his narcoterrorism conviction due to insufficient challenge of the sole witness linking him to the Taliban. Similarly, a 2011 case against an Afghan trafficker ended in deadlock; he was retried and convicted in 2012, but his narcoterrorism charge was later dismissed after evidence was discredited. Conversely, in recent years, convictions for drug trafficking involving FARC and Colombia have been upheld.

### Reliance on Cooperating Witnesses

Legal analysts suggest the government may use testimony from two former Venezuelan generals, Cliver Alcalá and Hugo Carvajal, indicted in 2020. Both have pleaded guilty to charges related to their dealings with FARC but have not cooperated at the time of their pleas.

In a phone interview from a Maryland prison, Alcalá stated his willingness to cooperate but criticized prosecutors for insisting he admit to drug trafficking—something he denies—before backing cooperation.

Alcalá, a former Venezuelan military officer, retired after Maduro assumed office and later became an outspoken critic. He is serving nearly 22 years after pleading guilty to supporting FARC with weapons, which he claims he did under orders from the late Venezuelan leader Hugo Chávez, but denies aiding drug traffickers.

Carvajal’s sentencing is scheduled for April 16. His legal representatives have not indicated whether he will cooperate.

March 26, 2026
Venezuela Interim Chief Dismisses Industry Minister Tied to Maduro

Venezuela’s acting president announced the dismissal of Alex Saab, a businessman and close confidant of ousted leader Nicolas Maduro, from his position as Minister of Industry. Delcy Rodriguez shared via Telegram that the ministry would be merged with the Commerce Ministry and expressed gratitude to Saab—who was born in Colombia but has Venezuelan nationality—for his contributions, noting he will assume new responsibilities.

This move occurs amid increased pressure from the United States following the U.S.-led military operation on January 3 that resulted in Maduro’s removal. Saab, who was released in early 2023 after a prisoner swap with the U.S., was reinstated by Maduro to his ministerial role in 2024. Previously, he was detained in Cape Verde in 2020 due to an Interpol alert, facing allegations of laundering money for Maduro’s government. He was later extradited to the U.S., where both he and his partner, Alvaro Pulido, face charges of operating a scheme that exploited food aid meant for Venezuela.

Rodriguez’s recent government changes are among the latest made by her since the U.S. capture of Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores. Meanwhile, opposition leader Maria Corina Machado declared that Venezuela is embarking on a “genuine transition” toward democracy, asserting that the U.S. and President Donald Trump support this effort.

Trump, however, has sidelined Machado and instead backed former Vice President Rodriguez as the interim leader, citing her alignment with U.S. interests regarding Venezuela’s significant oil reserves. Machado, claiming Maduro’s 2024 election was stolen—a claim supported by the U.S. and much of the international community—stated that Rodriguez is “taking orders” rather than acting independently.

Her comments followed a recent meeting between U.S. CIA Director John Ratcliffe and Rodriguez in Caracas. Ratcliffe’s visit was intended to “improve the working relationship” between the two nations, according to a U.S. official who spoke anonymously.

In a move indicating warming relations, a U.S. deportation flight bringing back 231 Venezuelans arrived in Caracas, the first scheduled since Maduro’s fall. Known for his firm immigration policies, Trump has carried out extensive raids and deportations during his term.

On Thursday, Machado presented her Nobel Peace Prize medal to Trump in an effort to garner his support. She described the gesture as “very emotional.” It remains uncertain whether Trump accepted or kept the medal after their White House meeting, though the Nobel Committee has clarified awards cannot be transferred.

Trump previously campaigned on the claim that he had halted eight wars since taking office, a promise that did not materialize, and was ultimately awarded the Nobel Peace Prize—an honor Machado was nominated for. She also met with Trump recently, and the White House expressed optimism about their ongoing communication.

Rodriguez has maintained that her government will stand firm against U.S. pressure, emphasizing their readiness to confront Washington diplomatically and through political dialogue. She delivered Maduro’s state of the nation address while the leader remains detained in New York facing drug trafficking charges, contrasting with Machado’s support base among Venezuelans, who greeted her with enthusiasm in Washington.

January 17, 2026
Is Donald Trump Venezuela’s De Facto Acting President?

Washington: President Donald Trump has declared himself the “Acting President of Venezuela” shortly after a U.S. military operation resulted in the detention of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro.

Trump posted an image on his social media platform, Truth Social, which resembled an edited Wikipedia entry, depicting himself as the “acting president” alongside his official portrait and title. The post also mentioned Vice President JD Vance as the “Vice President of Venezuela.”

However, Venezuela’s official Wikipedia page does not list Trump as acting president, and no international organization has recognized or supported this claim.

This announcement followed the U.S. operation that removed Maduro from power, after which he was flown to New York along with his wife to face federal drug trafficking charges. The strike came amid months of intense pressure, sanctions, and military actions targeting the oil-rich nation.

In a subsequent press conference, Trump stated, “This was one of the most impressive displays of American strength and skill in U.S. history.” He added that Washington would oversee the country’s oil resources until a proper transition is established.

During a court appearance on January 5, Maduro pleaded not guilty to four criminal charges, including narco-terrorism, conspiracy to import cocaine, and possession of illegal firearms and explosive devices. Maduro claimed he was “kidnapped” and declared his innocence.

Maduro is accused of running a cocaine trafficking network linked to violent groups such as Mexico’s Sinaloa and Zetas cartels, Colombian FARC rebels, and Venezuela’s Tren de Aragua gang.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed concern over the political instability in Venezuela and questioned the legality of the U.S. operation, describing it as the most significant U.S. intervention in Latin America since the 1989 Panama invasion. U.S. Special Forces reportedly entered Caracas by helicopter, broke through security barriers, and detained Maduro from a secure room.

[Additional scripts and embedded social media elements are present in the original document, but have been omitted for clarity.]

January 12, 2026
Venezuela and US Engage in Talks to Restore Diplomatic Relations

Venezuela announced it has started negotiations with the United States to restore diplomatic relations, just days after U.S. forces ousted Nicolás Maduro from power. This move signals a step toward cooperation following the detention of Maduro and U.S. President Donald Trump’s assertion that he is now “in charge” of the South American nation.

U.S. diplomats are currently in Caracas to discuss the reopening of Venezuela’s embassy, while in Washington, Trump has met with oil executives to explore gaining access to Venezuela’s extensive crude oil reserves. Foreign Minister Yvan Gil stated that Interim President Delcy Rodríguez’s government has decided to initiate an exploratory diplomatic process aimed at re-establishing formal relations with the U.S., including the reopening of embassies in both countries.

John McNamara, the top U.S. diplomat in neighboring Colombia, along with other staff, traveled to Caracas for an initial assessment regarding a phased resumption of diplomatic activities, a U.S. official explained on condition of anonymity. Venezuela responded by promising to send a delegation to Washington.

Rodríguez condemned what she called “the serious, criminal, illegal, and illegitimate attack” by the United States and vowed that Venezuela would continue to confront what she termed “this aggression” through diplomatic channels.

Earlier Friday, Trump announced he had canceled a second round of provocative actions against Venezuela due to the release of some prisoners. Despite previous hints that force might be used to influence events in Venezuela—a country with the world’s largest proven oil reserves—Trump emphasized efforts to encourage U.S. oil companies to invest in Venezuela’s oil industry. However, ExxonMobil’s CEO, Darren Woods, urged caution, characterizing Venezuela as “uninvestable” without significant reforms.

Trump highlighted that foreign companies would only engage with Washington, not Caracas, regarding oil operations. He also claimed that U.S. firms had committed to investing $100 billion in Venezuela, whose infrastructure has suffered from years of mismanagement and sanctions, and that the U.S. planned to sell 30 to 50 million barrels of Venezuelan crude, with proceeds to be used at the president’s discretion. Any funds sent to Caracas would be dedicated solely to purchasing U.S.-made products.

Meanwhile, U.S. authorities maintained maritime pressure on Venezuelan oil tankers in the Caribbean, having seized a vessel carrying Venezuelan crude—an operation Trump described as a “first successful joint operation” with Caracas. Venezuelan state oil company PDVSA confirmed that one ship was returning to Venezuelan waters.

Families gathered outside Venezuelan jails, awaiting the release of political prisoners—an action Washington credited itself for facilitating. One woman, Dilsia Caro, 50, expressed her relief upon learning her husband, Noel Flores, was to be released after being detained for criticizing Maduro.

Venezuela began releasing prisoners on Thursday, marking the first such movement since U.S. forces detained Maduro during a deadly raid on January 3. Trump indicated he will meet next week with opposition leader María Corina Machado, whom he previously dismissed for lacking the “respect” to lead Venezuela.

Exiled opposition figure Edmundo González Urrutia insisted that any democratic transition must recognize his claim to victory in the 2024 elections, which Maduro’s re-election—widely regarded as fraudulent—had declared him the winner. Meanwhile, González hopes for the release of his son-in-law, who has been detained in Caracas for a year.

In Caracas, thousands of protestors gathered, demanding Maduro’s release in daily demonstrations. Maduro was previously captured during a raid involving U.S. special forces and airstrikes, which resulted in over 100 deaths. Authorities claimed Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, were transported to New York for trial on drug trafficking and other charges. Despite this, Foreign Minister Yvan Gil maintained that Venezuela was “not subordinate or subjugated,” even as he pledged cooperation with the U.S.

The protests reflected ongoing tensions, with many Venezuelans opposing any form of U.S. intervention, especially after the attack that resulted in loss of life. One protester, 70-year-old Josefina Castro, called for independence from U.S. influence, lamenting the sacrifices made and condemning what she described as the damage caused by the raid.

January 10, 2026
U.S. Forces Eliminate 55 Venezuelan, Cuban Soldiers in Maduro Raid

US forces conducted a daring raid, resulting in the deaths of 55 Venezuelan and Cuban military personnel, according to reports from Caracas and Havana on Tuesday. Venezuela’s military confirmed that 23 of its service members lost their lives in Saturday’s attack, which led to the removal of Nicolás Maduro from power. The country has yet to release an official count of civilian casualties.

Cuba, which had already announced that 32 armed forces members and interior ministry security personnel stationed in Caracas had been killed, confirmed its casualties. The victims ranged in age from 26 to 67, including two colonels and a lieutenant colonel. Many of the deceased Cubans are believed to have been part of Maduro’s security detail, which was nearly wiped out during the assault, according to Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino Lopez.

The operation began with airstrikes targeting military installations, culminating in U.S. special forces helicoptering into the compound to seize Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores. They were later transported to New York, where they appeared in court Monday and pleaded not guilty to drug trafficking and other charges.

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum called Tuesday for the U.S. to ensure Maduro receives a “fair trial.”

Just hours after their court appearance, Maduro’s former deputy, Delcy Rodriguez, was sworn in as interim president. President Donald Trump indicated willingness to work with her, provided she agrees to his conditions for U.S. access to Venezuela’s large oil reserves. Rodriguez faces the difficult task of balancing these demands while maintaining loyalty from Maduro supporters.

She has moved to display unity with hardcore Maduro loyalists, who control security forces and paramilitary groups that have been patrolling the streets since Maduro’s arrest. Despite the transition, reports from a journalists’ union indicate that 14 foreign media journalists covering the presidential inauguration at parliament were detained but later released. Two other foreign journalists were detained near the Colombian border.

Opposition leader Maria Corina Machado, who has been excluded from the transition process by Washington, criticized Rodriguez in an interview with Fox News. She accused Rodriguez of being involved in torture, persecution, corruption, and drug trafficking, asserting she’s a key ally of Russia, China, and Iran, and stating she shouldn’t be trusted by international investors.

While Trump has supported Rodriguez, he warned she would face severe consequences if she failed to follow U.S. policies. Currently, she has maintained Maduro’s cabinet, with Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello and Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino Lopez—widely seen as the true power brokers—remaining in their positions.

A former military officer predicted Rodriguez might open Venezuela’s oil and mining sectors to U.S. corporations and possibly restore diplomatic ties severed by Maduro in 2019. He also suggested she might release political prisoners to quell international criticism over human rights abuses.

Trump described Maduro as a “violent guy” who “killed millions of people” and engaged in torture. He claimed the country has a torture chamber in Caracas, which is being shut down.

The Venezuelan constitution mandates that after Maduro is officially declared absent, elections must be held within 30 days. Machado expressed confidence in winning those elections, claiming a “victory of over 90%” if they’re free and fair. She envisions transforming Venezuela into the energy hub of the Americas, dismantling criminal networks, and repatriating millions of Venezuelans who have fled the country.

Machado even offered to give her Nobel Peace Prize—an award long sought by Trump—as a gesture to the U.S. president. However, she stated she hasn’t spoken with him since October 10.

January 7, 2026
CIA Finds Regime Loyalists Best to Lead Venezuela Post-Maduro

Venezuela’s President Nicolas Maduro, along with his wife Cilia Flores, Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino Lopez, and Vice President Delcy Rodriguez, participated in a year-end tribute to the military forces in La Guaira on December 28, 2025. — Reuters

– A classified CIA report presented to President Donald Trump indicated that top Maduro supporters, including Vice President Delcy Rodriguez, are the most capable of maintaining stability if Maduro were to exit power.
– The CIA’s intelligence suggests that Rodriguez is in the best position to uphold stability in Venezuela.
– The White House has not officially confirmed the CIA’s assessment regarding Venezuela.

A confidential CIA analysis given to President Trump concluded that loyalists within Maduro’s circle, notably Vice President Delcy Rodriguez, are the most likely to stabilize the nation if Maduro is ousted, according to two anonymous sources familiar with the matter, reaffirming an exclusive report by the Wall Street Journal.

The report was part of the intelligence briefings Trump received, which were shared with a small circle of his top security advisors.

This evaluation influenced Trump’s decision to support Nicolás Maduro’s vice president, Delcy Rodriguez, rather than opposition figure María Corina Machado, the sources said.

The White House declined to directly comment on the CIA’s findings, with press secretary Karoline Leavitt stating, “President Trump is regularly briefed on political developments worldwide. His decisions are based on realistic assessments to ensure Venezuela’s interests align with those of the United States, aiming for a better future for Venezuelans.”

Meanwhile, opposition leader María Corina Machado announced her intention to return to Venezuela “as soon as possible,” criticizing the interim government in Caracas.

In her first public statement since the weekend when the U.S. military reportedly removed Maduro from power, Machado, who is a Nobel Peace Prize laureate, expressed her commitment to returning home.

“I plan to go back to Venezuela at the earliest opportunity,” Machado told Sean Hannity on Fox News from an undisclosed location.

Machado explicitly condemned the country’s interim president, Delcy Rodriguez, accusing her of being a primary architect behind torture, persecution, corruption, and drug trafficking.

Rodriguez, who has shown some willingness to cooperate with U.S. authorities, served as Venezuela’s vice president under Maduro. Machado emphasized that Rodriguez is widely rejected by the Venezuelan populace and asserted that voters favor the opposition.

“In free and fair elections, we would win with over 90% of the vote—I have no doubt about it,” Machado declared.

Machado also outlined her vision to transform Venezuela into the energy hub of the Americas and to dismantle criminal networks that have inflicted harm on the country. She promised to facilitate the return of millions of Venezuelans who have fled the nation.

January 6, 2026
Maduro Makes First US Court Appearance Following Arrest

Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro arrived in New York on Monday, just days after being forcibly taken from Caracas in a surprise U.S. military operation aimed at establishing control over the country’s oil reserves. Maduro, 63, faces serious charges related to drug trafficking, alongside his wife, Cilia Flores. Authorities swooped into Caracas on Saturday, using helicopters, fighter jets, and naval units to apprehend them.

He was transported by helicopter and armored vehicle to a courthouse in downtown Manhattan, where he was escorted by heavily armed law enforcement. The international community closely monitors Venezuela’s response to these rapid developments, as interim leader Delcy Rodríguez temporarily stepped back from her initial defiance, offering cooperation with the U.S. government.

In Caracas, around 2,000 Maduro supporters, some armed and riding motorcycles, gathered to protest, waving Venezuelan flags and shouting slogans. The Venezuelan military, loyal to Maduro, declared recognition of Rodríguez’s interim government and called for calm. There have been no official reports of casualties in Venezuela, but Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino López stated that a significant portion of Maduro’s security team was killed in what he described as a cold-blooded attack, along with military personnel and civilians.

President Trump stated that the U.S. now has control over Venezuela, while Secretary of State Marco Rubio mentioned that discussions about holding elections post-Maduro’s removal might be premature. When asked what the U.S. needs from Rodríguez’s government, Trump indicated: “We need full access — access to their oil and other resources to help rebuild their country.”

Venezuela holds the world’s largest proven oil reserves, and increased production could flood the market, worsening oversupply and putting downward pressure on prices. Analysts warn that boosting crude output isn’t quick or inexpensive, given the complex political and infrastructural challenges. Oil prices initially dipped as traders assessed the implications.

The Trump administration maintains economic leverage by blocking Venezuelan oil ships and has threatened further military action. Although no U.S. troops are confirmed to remain inside Venezuela, a large naval fleet, including an aircraft carrier, remains off the coast.

Opposition figure Edmundo González Urrutia argued that while the U.S. operation was significant, it was insufficient unless political prisoners are released and Maduro’s supposed 2024 election victory is acknowledged as legitimate. Details of the operation continue to emerge, with Havana reporting that 32 Cubans were killed during the assault, and Trump suggesting Cuba could soon fall after Maduro’s capture. Trump added, “I don’t think we need any further action — it looks like it’s happening on its own.”

The United Nations Security Council has scheduled an emergency session on Venezuela at the country’s request.

The White House signaled that its goal was not regime change but replacing Maduro with a compliant government, even if led by former associates. Maduro, a protégé of Hugo Chávez, had maintained control until his capture this weekend. He ruled alongside Flores, Rodríguez, her brother Jorge, and Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello— described by a diplomatic source as a “club of five.”

The U.S. stance leaves the Venezuelan opposition sidelined, which Washington claims was robbed of victory by Maduro. Countries like China, Russia, and Iran, which have longstanding ties with Maduro, condemned the U.S. operation. China called for Maduro’s immediate release, condemning the raid as a violation of international law. Iran affirmed that its relations with Venezuela remain strong and called for Maduro’s release. Colombia’s President Gustavo Petro condemned the U.S. effort as an attack on Latin America’s sovereignty, warning it could trigger a humanitarian crisis. He also rejected President Trump’s threats of military intervention and accusations of drug trafficking against him.

January 5, 2026
US files charges against Venezuelan president and first lady

Geo News has obtained the official charge sheet filed by the U.S. Department of Justice against Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores. Both are expected to appear before a federal court in New York on Monday.

This charge sheet, lodged with the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York, is a superseding indictment, which means it expands on previous charges to make them more comprehensive and pressing.

According to the document provided to Geo News, U.S. prosecutors accuse Maduro of leveraging his official authority to shield and manage a large-scale drug trafficking operation. Over several years, the indictment alleges Maduro facilitated the movement of significant amounts of cocaine into the United States.

The document classifies these activities as beyond typical drug smuggling, labeling them as narco-terrorism according to U.S. law. It further claims Maduro and his associates collaborated with armed groups during trafficking operations and conspired to possess and deploy sophisticated weapons, including machine guns and other destructive devices, to support their criminal endeavors.

The charges fall under serious federal statutes, such as conspiracy to commit narco-terrorism, conspiracy to import cocaine, and illegal possession of weapons. Cilia Flores is also named in the indictment, with prosecutors alleging that she was aware of the operations and, at times, involved in financial and administrative assistance. They argue that the network operated for many years, aiming to generate profits through drug trafficking while posing threats to U.S. interests.

Legal experts warn that if even one of these claims is substantiated in court, Maduro and Flores could face lengthy prison sentences, possibly including life imprisonment. The actual sentence would depend on the evidence, jury verdict, and federal sentencing procedures.

Maduro is scheduled to appear in a Manhattan federal court, a venue with a storied history of high-profile cases, including the trial and sentencing of Dr. Aafia Siddiqui in 2010, who was convicted there under the same judicial district.

Recent court records reveal that the primary focus now is on the nature of the allegations and the potential penalties if Maduro and Flores are proven guilty. The Southern District of New York has long been a major hub for some of the world’s most significant criminal trials, such as Bernard Madoff’s sentencing for his massive Ponzi scheme, which resulted in 150 years in prison, and the conviction and sentencing of figures like Sam Bankman-Fried for financial crimes, Ghislaine Maxwell for her role in Jeffrey Epstein’s trafficking crimes, and Martha Stewart for insider trading.

January 5, 2026
Quiet Caracas streets after US strike in Venezuela

A woman accompanied by two children passes by a military vehicle at the Venezuela border crossing in Cucuta, Colombia, on January 3, 2026. — Reuters

A faint scent of explosives lingered in Caracas on Saturday as residents grappled with the aftermath of an early-morning U.S. operation that resulted in the removal of strongman Nicolas Maduro.

While a handful of Maduro’s supporters gathered, shouting for his liberation, most streets remained eerily silent.

“I was jolted awake by the explosions. In that moment, I thought, ‘My God, the day has finally arrived,’ and I started crying,” said Maria Eugenia Escobar, 58, who lives in the city of six million.

The strikes commenced around 2:00 a.m. local time, with dozens of loud blasts initially mistaken for fireworks by some. Shockwaves rattled windows, prompting residents to spill out onto balconies and terraces as military aircraft streaked overhead.

“It was terrible; we could hear the planes flying over our home,” recounted a resident from the Coche neighborhood, near the city’s largest military complex, which was hit during the attack.

Fires and billowing smoke marked several parts of the city, enveloped soon by a fog-like haze. Witnesses reported bombings in La Guaira, at Caracas’s airport and port, in Maracay to the west, and in Higuerote to the east.

Meanwhile, Venezuelans quickly learned Maduro had been detained by U.S. special forces and transported to face trial in New York.

A small rally in Caracas saw supporters shouting, “Long live Nicolas Maduro,” from a makeshift stage blaring revolutionary music, responding to chants of “Long live!”

Katia Briceno, 54, a university professor, protested what she called U.S. “barbarism.” “How can a foreign government come into our country and remove our president? It’s absurd!” she told AFP.

Most others remained indoors, with only sporadic cars seen on deserted streets, guarded by police in black uniforms carrying long guns.

Many businesses were shut down after the attack, though some stores opened with limited capacity, forming lines of customers.

Damage was largely confined to military sites, with vehicles riddled with bullets, some burning and others charred.

Satellite images showed Caracas before and after the strikes, revealing the extent of the destruction.

Venezuelan Defense Minister General Vladimir Padrino Lopez accused U.S. forces of targeting civilian areas with missiles and helicopters. President Trump stated that no U.S. personnel had been killed but did not disclose the toll on Venezuela.

The country’s future remains uncertain for Caracas residents. Trump declared he isn’t worried about invading with ground troops and hinted at potentially larger strikes if needed. He asserted that the U.S. intends to oversee Venezuela until a political change occurs.

Opposition leader Maria Corina Machado called for Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia, who the opposition claims won the July 2024 election, to immediately take on his constitutional role as president.

Trump dismissed the idea that Machado might lead Venezuela, citing a lack of support there, and suggested working instead with Maduro’s deputy, Delcy Rodriguez, who he said is willing to cooperate in making Venezuela “great again.”

Across the border, Colombian forces reinforced their positions using tanks and armed soldiers, particularly at main crossings, under orders from President Gustavo Petro, who has publicly disagreed with Trump over regional military movements.

Petro’s government warns of a possible humanitarian crisis as migrants flood across the border from Venezuela. On Saturday, the main crossing at the Simon Bolivar Bridge saw far fewer pedestrians than usual.

January 4, 2026
Maduro in NYC Jail as Trump Appoints Venezuela Leaders
A still image shows Venezuela’s President Nicolas Maduro being walked in custody down a hallway at the offices of the US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) in New York City, US, January 3, 2026. — Reuters
- US to oversee Venezuela until ‘safe, proper, judicious transition’: Trump
- Venezuela’s top court orders Vice President Rodriguez to assume the presidency.
- US military reports over 150 aircraft involved in Maduro’s capture mission
Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro was detained in a New York jail on Saturday, shortly after U.S. special forces seized and evacuated him from his country. President Donald Trump claimed that control of Venezuela would effectively shift to the United States.

The announcement followed a swift pre-dawn raid where commandos abducted Maduro and his wife while airstrikes targeted locations in and around Caracas.

A U.S. military aircraft carrying Maduro landed at a military base after nightfall before transferring him by helicopter to New York City, where he and his wife are set to face drug trafficking and weapons charges.

The White House released a video on X of Maduro, in handcuffs and sandals, being escorted through a DEA facility in New York. In the clip, the 63-year-old leftist can be heard saying, “Good night, happy new year,” in English.

Although the operation was successful, future developments remain uncertain.

Trump indicated that cabinet members are being designated to manage Venezuela, but offered no detailed plans. He also hinted at the potential deployment of troops, stating that the U.S. is “not afraid of boots on the ground.”

He expressed a preference to work with Maduro’s Vice President, Delcy Rodriguez, rather than support opposition forces taking power.

Trumps’s interest in Venezuela’s oil reserves was evident, as he stated, “We’re going to have our large American oil companies go in, invest billions of dollars, and repair the badly damaged infrastructure. We will be exporting significant amounts of oil.”

Opposition leader dismissed

Maria Corina Machado, an opposition leader backed by the U.S. and recently awarded the Nobel Peace Prize, posted on social media that “the time for freedom has arrived.” She called for Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia, the opposition’s 2024 presidential candidate, to take office immediately.

Trump dismissed Machado’s chances, claiming she lacks “support or respect” in Venezuela. Instead, he praised Rodriguez, saying she is willing to do what’s necessary to “make Venezuela great again.”

Venezuela’s Supreme Court later ordered Rodriguez to assume presidential powers in an acting capacity. The situation reflects ongoing political instability.

Trump suggested that U.S. involvement in Venezuela may continue for some time, stating, “We will stay until the proper transition process is complete.”

Destroyed vehicles at La Carlota military air base after U.S. President Donald Trump announced the strike on Venezuela and Maduro’s capture, Caracas, January 3, 2026. — Reuters

Venezuela’s allies condemned the operation. China issued a strong condemnation, while France emphasized that solutions must not be imposed externally. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed deep concern over what he called violations of international law.

The UN Security Council is scheduled to meet Monday at Venezuela’s request to discuss the crisis, according to the Somali presidency of the Council.

Airstrikes and power outages

Venezuelans prepared for possible attacks as US forces gathered offshore for months. Residents of Caracas woke early to explosions and helicopters overhead around 2:00 a.m. local time. Airstrikes targeted a military base and other strategic sites for nearly an hour.

According to General Dan Caine, over 150 aircraft supported the operation, helping troops airlifted in to detain Maduro based on months of intelligence—including details about his daily routine, diet, and pets.

One of three helicopters believed to be carrying Venezuela’s President Nicolas Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores departs after their capture by U.S. forces in Venezuela, at Stewart Air National Guard Base, New York, January 3, 2026. Reuters

Maduro and his wife reportedly surrendered without resistance, with no U.S. casualties. Trump mentioned to the New York Post that many Cubans assigned to Maduro’s security were killed in the operation.

Following the raid, Caracas was unusually quiet, with police patrols outside government buildings and smoke filling the air.

Shifting narratives

The United States and many European nations refused to recognize Maduro’s presidency, accusing him of election fraud in 2018 and 2024. Maduro, who has been in power since 2013 after succeeding Hugo Chavez, has long accused Trump of attempting regime change to control Venezuela’s oil supplies.

Trump has justified his hardline stance—citing issues like illegal migration, drug trafficking, and oil interests—although he previously avoided explicitly calling for Maduro’s ouster.

Many members of Congress questioned the legality of the operation, but House Republican leader Mike Johnson defended it, calling it “justified.”
January 4, 2026
US Effort to Detain Maduro Unveiled

In the early hours of Saturday, President Donald Trump announced on his Truth Social platform that the U.S. had executed a daring operation to apprehend Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife. The surprise action was the culmination of months of planning, which included meticulous rehearsals. Elite American forces, such as Delta Force, built an exact replica of Maduro’s secure residence and practiced the assault extensively.

Since August, a small team from the CIA had been on the ground gathering intelligence about Maduro’s routines, making a swift capture feasible. Additionally, the CIA reportedly had an asset close to Maduro monitoring his movements and ready to pinpoint his exact location during the operation.

The green light for the mission was given by Trump four days earlier, although military and intelligence officials advised waiting for clearer weather conditions with less cloud cover. The operation officially commenced in the early hours, while Trump watched a live feed from his Palm Beach club, Mar-a-Lago.

Details about the unfolding events come from interviews with four knowledgeable sources and Trump’s own disclosures. Following the operation’s completion, Trump shared on Fox News that he had never seen anything like it, highlighting the scale and precision of the mission.

The Pentagon stationed substantial forces in the Caribbean, including an aircraft carrier, 11 warships, and over a dozen F-35 jets. In total, more than 15,000 troops were deployed for what was officially described as anti-drug efforts but also supported the covert operation.

Key figures, such as senior aide Stephen Miller, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, and CIA Director John Ratcliffe, closely collaborated over months with frequent meetings and direct communication with the president. Late on Friday night and into Saturday morning, Trump and his advisors coordinated strikes against targets inside and near Caracas, including Venezuelan air defense systems. Trump described the aerial assault as involving a “massive” number of aircraft, with one fighter for every possible contingency.

Additional sources confirmed that refueling tankers, drones, and electronic warfare aircraft had also been moved into the region quietly. The airstrikes targeted military sites, with images from La Carlota air base showing destroyed military vehicles from a Venezuelan anti-aircraft unit.

US Special Forces, armed heavily and equipped with tools including a blowtorch, moved into Caracas. Although the exact entry method was not disclosed, social media videos displayed low-flying helicopters over the city. Upon reaching Maduro’s residence—described by Trump as a “fortress”—the troops, aided by FBI agents, stormed the safe house. Trump stated the residence was so well-guarded that it was difficult to breach, but the team was able to break in quickly through steel doors designed to withstand such assaults.

Once inside, it is unclear precisely how Maduro and his wife were captured, though Trump indicated Maduro attempted to reach a safe room but was caught before he could. Trump noted that some U.S. forces sustained injuries but none were fatalities.

As the operation unfolded, Rubio kept lawmakers informed, although notifications were made only after the mission’s initiation, deviating from usual protocols. Reports suggest Maduro was aboard a helicopter that was hit “pretty hard,” yet it managed to return. The Venezuelan leader was then transferred to the USS Iwo Jima, an amphibious assault ship, before being flown to New York for trial.

January 3, 2026
Venezuela’s Machado to Decline In-Person Nobel Peace Award

Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado will not be attending the Nobel Peace Prize ceremony in Oslo on Wednesday, as her current location remains unknown, according to the Norwegian Nobel Institute director. Machado, aged 58, was supposed to accept the award at Oslo City Hall alongside King Harald, Queen Sonja, and Latin American leaders including Argentine President Javier Milei and Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa. The event is scheduled to begin at 1 p.m. (1200 GMT).

Machado had planned to receive the accolade despite a travel ban imposed by Venezuelan authorities over the past decade, and after spending more than a year in hiding. Kristian Berg Harpviken, Institute director and the Nobel prize secretary, confirmed that she is not present in Norway and will miss the ceremony. When asked about her whereabouts, he replied, “I don’t know.”

Typically, when a laureate cannot attend, a close family member receives the prize and delivers the Nobel lecture, which in this case will be her daughter, Ana Corina Sosa Machado. Machado previously dedicated her award, announced in October, partly to former U.S. President Donald Trump, who claimed he himself deserved the honor.

President Nicolas Maduro, in office since 2013, accuses Trump of attempting to overthrow him to gain control of Venezuela’s extensive oil reserves. Maduro asserts that both the Venezuelan people and armed forces will resist any such endeavors. The Nobel Institute has not issued further comments on Machado’s absence.

Machado has aligned herself with Trump-era hawks who contend that Maduro has ties to criminal organizations threatening U.S. national security, despite skepticism from U.S. intelligence agencies. Recently, the Trump administration has conducted over 20 military operations targeting suspected drug-trafficking ships in the Caribbean and near Latin America’s Pacific coast. Critics, including human rights advocates, some Democrats, and several Latin American nations, have condemned these strikes as unlawful extrajudicial killings.

Sources with insight into Venezuela’s military planning suggest that if the U.S. initiates air or ground attacks, the armed forces are prepared to engage in guerrilla tactics or cause chaos to resist. Last year, Machado was barred from running in Venezuela’s presidential election despite winning the opposition primary by a large margin. She went into hiding in August 2024 after authorities intensified arrests of opposition figures following a disputed election that officially declared Maduro the winner. Many international observers and opposition groups maintain that Machado’s side actually secured a decisive victory, citing detailed ballot box tallies as evidence.

Christopher Sabatini, a senior fellow specializing in Latin America at Chatham House, commented that the Nobel accolade signals significant international validation of the forgotten democratic efforts and has elevated Machado as a hopeful figure for the global community. “Movements for democracy often need a face and a compelling story,” he added.

December 10, 2025