The capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro by US forces marks a significant escalation in US-Venezuela relations. Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, were detained during a military operation and subsequently flown to New York, where he is now facing legal proceedings. The situation has prompted strong reactions from China and raised questions about the future of Venezuela's political landscape.

Capture and Arrival in the US
On Saturday evening, a plane believed to be carrying Nicolás Maduro and Cilia Flores landed at Stewart Air National Guard Base in Newburgh, New York. Reports indicate that Maduro was escorted off the plane by FBI agents and subsequently transported by helicopter to Manhattan. He arrived at the Westside Heliport shortly before 7 PM, where heavy security awaited him. Following this, he was taken to the US Drug Enforcement Administration's offices before being transferred to the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn.

Initial Court Appearance
Maduro is expected to make his initial court appearance in Manhattan federal court on Monday. The Metropolitan Detention Center has housed several high-profile inmates, including celebrities and individuals involved in significant legal cases. The circumstances of his capture were captured in a video posted by the White House, showing him handcuffed and escorted by agents, where he was heard wishing “Goodnight” and “Happy New Year.”

International Reactions
China's foreign ministry has called for the immediate release of Maduro and his wife, asserting that their deportation violates international law and norms. The ministry emphasized the need for dialogue and negotiation to resolve the situation. This call reflects China's growing influence and concern regarding US actions in Latin America.

US Plans for Venezuela
In a press conference, former President Donald Trump stated that the US intends to "run the country [Venezuela] until such time as we can do a safe, proper and judicious transition." He did not elaborate on the specifics of this plan but indicated that the US would be heavily involved in Venezuela's oil industry post-capture. Trump also noted that his administration had not engaged with Venezuela's exiled opposition leader, María Corina Machado, questioning her ability to lead in her homeland due to a lack of support.

Political Implications
In Maduro's absence, Venezuela's supreme court has ordered Vice President Delcy Rodríguez to assume the role of acting president. This development raises questions about the stability of the Venezuelan government and the potential for further unrest as the country navigates this unprecedented political crisis.

Wrap-up
The capture of Nicolás Maduro represents a pivotal moment in US-Venezuelan relations, with significant implications for both countries. As Maduro faces legal challenges in the US, the international community watches closely, particularly regarding the potential impact on Venezuela's political future and its oil industry.

Sources
theguardian.com

@hoju-korean.com Editorial Team