The United States has shocked the international community with a major military operation against Venezuela that resulted in the arrest of President Nicolás Maduro and his wife. The controversial move triggered immediate backlash, including strong criticism from New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, who described the action as deeply troubling.
Zohran Mamdani, a vocal critic of former President Donald Trump, said he was personally briefed on the detention of President Maduro and his spouse. According to Mamdani, the briefing included detailed information about their arrest and current status in custody, raising serious concerns about the legality and consequences of the operation.
Condemning the U.S. action, Zohran called it a “serious violation of international law” and warned that unilateral military interventions against sovereign nations carry far-reaching consequences. He stressed that such actions are not confined to foreign policy debates but can directly affect cities like New York. “Attempts at regime change abroad don’t stay overseas; they have real implications for our city and its people,” he said.
Zohran Mamdani also highlighted the large Venezuelan community living in New York City, emphasizing that their safety and well-being remain a top priority for his administration. He assured residents that protecting every New Yorker, regardless of background or nationality, is his foremost responsibility.
The mayor added that city officials are closely monitoring developments and remain actively engaged to address any potential social, security, or humanitarian impacts stemming from the crisis. His administration, he said, is prepared to respond swiftly if the situation escalates.
Read more: Trump Claims US Strike Hits Venezuela—Details Emerging
Former President Donald Trump later confirmed the operation, stating on social media that Maduro and his wife had been arrested and removed from Venezuela in what he called a “large-scale and successful operation” involving U.S. law enforcement agencies.
The dramatic episode represents one of the most significant U.S. interventions in recent years, reigniting debates over international law, national sovereignty, and the safety of diaspora communities, particularly in global cities such as New York.
