The ousted Venezuelan leader, Nicolás Maduro, is set to appear before a federal court in New York this Monday. This comes just two days after his dramatic capture in Caracas during a U.S. military operation that led to his transfer to American soil under tight security measures.
Live broadcasts from international networks captured the moment a black helicopter landed on a helipad along the East River in Manhattan. There, armed DEA and Department of Justice agents escorted a handcuffed and grim-faced Maduro to a convoy that transported him to the courthouse, where he will be formally charged with drug trafficking and corruption.
At 63 years old, Maduro is accused of smuggling cocaine into the United States alongside his wife, Cilia Flores, who was also apprehended during the operation. The new indictment also lists his son, "Nicolasito" Maduro Guerra, Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello, and a notorious boss from the Cartel of the Suns, who remains at large.
The former head of state is currently held in a high-security federal prison in Brooklyn, awaiting his first court appearance scheduled for 12:00 p.m. local time (5:00 p.m. GMT).
Over the weekend, President Donald Trump stated that the United States is "in charge" of Venezuela. He confirmed ongoing "operational contacts" with interim authorities led by Delcy Rodríguez, who reportedly agreed to cooperate with Washington regarding "political and security transitions."
Maduro's capture, which the White House has labeled as "the biggest blow to Latin American narco-terrorism," signifies a profound shift in regional politics, leaving Cuba, Maduro's chief ally, in a precarious economic and diplomatic position.
Key Details About Nicolás Maduro's Legal Proceedings
What charges is Nicolás Maduro facing in the U.S.?
Nicolás Maduro is facing charges of drug trafficking and corruption in the United States.
Who else was captured alongside Nicolás Maduro?
Maduro's wife, Cilia Flores, was also detained during the operation. His son, Maduro Guerra, and Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello are included in the indictment.
Where is Nicolás Maduro currently being held?
Nicolás Maduro is being held in a maximum-security federal prison in Brooklyn, New York.