Indictment of Nicolás Maduro and Family
Federal prosecutors in New York have brought serious charges against Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. They have also charged his wife, Cilia Flores, and his son, Nicolás Ernesto Maduro Guerra. The charges include drug trafficking, conspiracy to import cocaine, and possession of machine guns and destructive devices. Additionally, Maduro faces a narco-terrorism conspiracy charge, as detailed in a 25-page indictment that was unsealed on Saturday.
US Actions and Presidential Response
President Donald Trump spoke at a Saturday afternoon press conference. He asserted that Maduro and his wife would soon “face the full might of American justice.” They would stand trial on American soil. The indictment was made public only hours after Trump revealed this. The United States had carried out a significant strike in Venezuela. They captured Maduro and his wife. They then transported them to the US.
During the same conference, Trump specified that the couple would be brought to New York. However, there is still uncertainty regarding the capture of Maduro’s son.
Details of the Indictment
According to the indictment, Maduro is accused of leading a corrupt and illegitimate government. For decades, it has exploited its power to facilitate and protect illegal activities such as drug trafficking. The document claims these activities have financially benefited Maduro’s family. This includes his wife and son, who serves in Venezuela’s National Assembly.
The indictment further states, “This cycle of narcotics-based corruption enriches Venezuelan officials and their families. It also empowers violent narco-terrorists. These terrorists operate with impunity on Venezuelan territory. They help produce, protect, and transport tons of cocaine to the United States.”
Trump’s Statements on Maduro’s Role
President Trump described Maduro as “the kingpin of a vast criminal network.” This network is responsible for trafficking enormous quantities of lethal and illegal drugs into the United States. He also claimed that Maduro personally oversaw the Cartel de Las Olas. He accused this cartel of flooding the US with dangerous narcotics.
Official Responses and Legal Basis
A spokesperson for the Manhattan US attorney’s office did not provide immediate comment regarding the situation.
US officials appear to be using the charges as justification for the military strike in Venezuela. The strike was conducted without congressional approval. Vice President JD Vance stated on social media that the US had presented Venezuela with “multiple off ramps.”
Vance addressed criticisms regarding the legality of the action. He stated, “And PSA for everyone saying this was ‘illegal’: Maduro has multiple indictments in the United States for narcoterrorism. You don’t get to avoid justice for drug trafficking in the US. This applies even if you live in a palace in Caracas.”
Sources : CNN/AZ Intel/DW
