Venezuela’s former leader, Maduro, was transferred under heavy security to a federal court in Manhattan on Monday. He is scheduled to face US drug-related charges amid growing international attention.
US authorities moved Maduro from the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn to Manhattan ahead of his appearance before US District Judge Alvin K. Hellerstein at noon local time (17:00 GMT). Television footage showed Maduro stepping off a helicopter with a woman believed to be his wife, Cilia Flores. Both were escorted by multiple DEA agents and were wearing prison attire. Maduro was seen limping slightly during the transfer.
Maduro, 63, is accused by US prosecutors of running a cocaine-trafficking network linked to Mexico’s Sinaloa and Zetas cartels, Colombia’s FARC rebels, and Venezuela’s Tren de Aragua gang. He has repeatedly denied the allegations, calling them politically motivated and connected to US interests in Venezuela’s oil reserves.
The transfer follows a high-risk operation in Caracas over the weekend, during which US Special Forces reportedly captured Maduro in a helicopter raid. The operation has drawn widespread international scrutiny, with the UN Security Council expected to review its legality. Russia, China, Cuba, and other allies of Venezuela have condemned the move, while several US allies have called for restraint and respect for international law.
Venezuela’s interim leadership has softened its stance. Acting President Delcy Rodriguez urged a “balanced and respectful” relationship with Washington and encouraged cooperation rather than confrontation. Rodriguez remains a key figure in the Chavista movement even as Maduro is held in US custody.
US President Donald Trump defended the operation, describing Maduro as a dictator and drug kingpin. He linked the action to efforts to curb drug trafficking, reduce migration pressures, and reopen Venezuela’s oil sector to US companies.
In other related news also read Maduro’s Rule In Question As Trump Talks Venezuela War
Inside Venezuela, the situation remains tense but calm. Some opponents of Maduro welcomed the development, but celebrations were muted. Citizens have reportedly begun stockpiling food and medicine, fearing potential instability in the coming days.
