New York, NY – Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has been imprisoned in a Brooklyn detention center, according to US authorities. He is scheduled to appear before a federal court in Manhattan tomorrow to face charges related to narcotics and weapons trafficking.
The dramatic arrest follows a reported US military operation in Venezuela. Initial reports of explosions within Venezuela surfaced yesterday, causing widespread confusion. The US administration later confirmed the operation, stating that Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, were apprehended and transported to the United States for prosecution.
The situation remains fluid, but the initial fallout includes a strong condemnation from China. Beijing has demanded the immediate release of Maduro and his wife, calling the US action a clear violation of international law.
The Chinese Foreign Ministry released a statement urging the United States to guarantee the safety of President Maduro and his wife, cease efforts to overthrow the Venezuelan government, and release them immediately.
Maduro was taken to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) offices in New York for initial questioning after arriving at a National Guard base north of the city. The US Justice Department has released an indictment accusing Maduro of leading a corrupt and illegitimate government for years.
DZWatch will continue to provide updates on this developing story.
