Nicolas Maduro was apprehended by heavily armed Federal agents and escorted in handcuffs to a New York court today following his capture by US forces. The ousted Venezuelan leader asserted his claim as the “president of my country” while protesting his arrest and pleading not guilty to federal drug trafficking charges on Monday. Meanwhile, back in Venezuela, his deputy Delcy Rodriguez was sworn in as Acting President amidst the ongoing political turmoil instigated by US President Donald Trump.
Maduro’s court appearance, his first following his removal from Venezuela and transportation to the US, was met with heightened security measures and widespread protests both locally and internationally. Prime Minister Keir Starmer emphasized the necessity for Venezuela to swiftly transition to democracy, denouncing Maduro as an illegitimate leader. Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper engaged with US counterpart Marco Rubio to stress the significance of upholding international law in light of Trump’s involvement in Venezuelan affairs. The focus remains on preventing further instability, criminality, repression, or violence in Venezuela, as echoed by Cooper in parliament.
Protesters gathered outside Downing Street to demand the release of Nicolas Maduro, chanting slogans and receiving support from prominent figures like Jeremy Corbyn and Richard Burgon. Tensions escalated as a group of individuals defaced and destroyed a US flag in the crowd.
Maduro was transported from a helicopter to a secure vehicle before his court appearance in Manhattan, where supporters and protesters rallied in solidarity with the former Venezuelan president. His wife, Cilia Flores, was also captured alongside him at their Caracas residence. During the court proceedings, Maduro maintained his innocence regarding the drug trafficking charges brought against him.
Vice President Delcy Rodriguez assumed the role of Acting President in Venezuela following Maduro’s arrest, marking a significant shift in the country’s political landscape. Observers witnessed the unfolding of an extraordinary political saga as the convoy carrying Maduro passed through the streets. Notable figures like Peter Tatchell and Jeremy Corbyn participated in the ‘Hands off Venezuela’ protest in London, denouncing external interventions in Venezuelan affairs. US Ambassador to the UN Mike Waltz described Maduro’s capture as a precise law enforcement operation during a Security Council meeting.