Nicolas Maduro was apprehended by heavily armed Federal agents and led in handcuffs to a New York court today after a dramatic capture by US forces. The former Venezuelan leader defiantly proclaimed himself the “president of my country” as he contested his arrest and entered a plea of not guilty to federal drug trafficking charges. Meanwhile, Delcy Rodriguez, his deputy, assumed the role of Acting President back in Venezuela amidst the ongoing political turmoil instigated by President Donald Trump.
Maduro’s court appearance, the first since he and his wife were taken from their residence and transported to the US, occurred amidst tight security measures and widespread protests both locally and globally. Prime Minister Keir Starmer emphasized the urgent need for Venezuela to transition peacefully to democracy, denouncing Maduro as an “illegitimate” leader. Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper engaged in discussions with US official Marco Rubio regarding adherence to international law following Trump’s involvement in Venezuela, stressing the importance of preventing further instability, criminal activities, repression, and violence in the region.
Outside Downing Street, a gathering of demonstrators demanded the release of Nicolas Maduro, chanting slogans and hearing speeches from prominent figures like Jeremy Corbyn and Richard Burgon. The crowd witnessed a few individuals desecrating a US flag in protest. Maduro was transported from a helicopter to an armored vehicle before his appearance at the federal courthouse in Manhattan, drawing attention from spectators and supporters. In Venezuela, Vice President Delcy Rodriguez was officially sworn in as Acting President during this tumultuous period. The unfolding political drama was closely watched as a convoy believed to be carrying Maduro made its way through the city, with notable figures like Peter Tatchell and Jeremy Corbyn participating in London protests. US Ambassador to the UN, Mike Waltz, characterized Maduro’s capture as a “surgical law enforcement operation” during a Security Council meeting.