Maduro and Wife Arrive in New York for Narco-Terrorism Charges
Nicolás Maduro, the ousted Venezuelan president, and his wife, Cilia Flores, have been captured in a U.S. military operation in Caracas. They arrived at Stewart Air National Guard Base, located just north of New York City, on Saturday afternoon, January 3, 2026. Their capture marks a significant moment in U.S.-Venezuelan relations as they now face serious legal repercussions in the United States.
Details of the Capture and Arrival in New York
The couple was taken from their residence in Caracas during a covert operation. Following their capture, they were transported to the USS Iwo Jima warship before being flown to New York. Reports indicate that they could be arraigned within days, potentially as early as Monday.
Detention in Brooklyn
Maduro and Flores are expected to be held at the Metropolitan Detention Center (MDC) in Brooklyn. This facility is known for housing high-profile inmates and has the capacity to accommodate high-security defendants. Notable past residents include Joaquin “El Chapo” Guzman and Ghislaine Maxwell.
Charges Against Maduro and Flores
The U.S. Department of Justice has unsealed a superseding indictment against Maduro, his family members, and his cabinet. The charges include conspiracy to commit narco-terrorism and to import cocaine into the United States. Additionally, Maduro faces allegations regarding possession and conspiracy related to “machine guns and destructive devices.”
- Conspiracy to commit narco-terrorism
- Importation of cocaine
- Possession of machine guns and destructive devices
The indictment alleges that Maduro has been integral to Venezuela’s drug trafficking operations, stating he has abused his position for over 25 years to facilitate drug shipments. Maduro’s collaboration with the Colombian guerrilla group FARC is also highlighted in the accusations.
Cilia Flores’ Alleged Involvement
The indictment suggests that Cilia Flores has played a role in her husband’s alleged criminal activities. It claims she facilitated meetings between drug traffickers and Venezuelan officials, accepting significant bribes for enabling cocaine shipments.
Government Response and Future Implications
Attorney General Pam Bondi stated that Maduro and Flores will face the full extent of justice in American courts. Their capture and impending trial signal a new chapter in U.S. enforcement against international drug trafficking, particularly concerning Venezuela’s leaders.
Former President Donald Trump expressed intentions for the U.S. to assume some level of control over Venezuela’s oil reserves, following the operation. This could indicate broader geopolitical shifts in the region as the legal proceedings unfold.
As the situation develops, both Maduro and Flores await their arraignment and the subsequent legal battles that lie ahead.
