UPDATE: Ousted Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has just arrived in New York City after being captured by U.S. forces during a dramatic nighttime operation. This marks his first public appearance since his capture, as he faces serious narco-terrorism charges in the Southern District of New York.
A shocking video released by the White House shows Maduro, dressed in black sweats and a hat, being escorted by federal agents inside the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) headquarters in Chelsea. In the clip, he can be heard saying, “Good Night, Happy New Year,” as he clutched a water bottle during his transport.
Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, were taken to the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn following their arrival. Their charges stem from a lengthy investigation into their alleged involvement in international drug trafficking, which has been a major issue since 2020.
Witnesses report a jeering crowd greeted Maduro at the jail, chanting “dirty scumbag” as he made his way to detention. This moment is significant not only for Venezuelan politics but also for international law enforcement, as it showcases the U.S. government’s commitment to addressing narco-terrorism on a global scale.
Earlier today, President Donald Trump confirmed the operation, highlighting it as a crucial step in combating drug-related crime in the region. “We will get to the bottom of this,” he stated during a New Year’s address, emphasizing the importance of justice for victims of drug violence.
As the world watches, the legal proceedings against Maduro will begin shortly, and the implications of this case could resonate across multiple continents. Analysts are closely monitoring the situation, noting that the trial could alter the political landscape in Venezuela and impact U.S.-Latin America relations.
Stay tuned for further updates as the story develops. This is a historic moment not only for the Venezuelan people but also for the fight against global drug trafficking.
