US Says Maduro to Face Drug and Terror Charges
The United States has announced that Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro will face criminal charges related to drug trafficking and terrorism, hours after Washington claimed he had been taken into US custody. US authorities said the charges are based on long-standing indictments filed in American courts, accusing Maduro of involvement in narcotics trafficking networks and links to armed groups designated as terrorist organisations by the US government.
Nature of the Charges
According to US officials, the charges include conspiracy to traffic cocaine into the United States and narco-terrorism-related offences. These cases were originally filed several years ago and carry severe penalties under US federal law. American authorities said the legal process would now move forward, with Maduro expected to be produced before a US court at a later stage.
Contested Claims of Capture
The announcement followed statements by US President Donald Trump claiming that Maduro had been “captured” during a large-scale operation. However, there has been no independent confirmation from Venezuelan authorities or international bodies regarding Maduro’s detention or transfer out of Venezuela. Caracas has not acknowledged any such development, and the situation remains unclear.
International and Legal Implications
The claims and charges have triggered sharp reactions internationally, with questions being raised over jurisdiction, sovereignty, and due process involving a sitting head of state. Analysts say the developments mark a significant escalation in already tense US–Venezuela relations and could have wide diplomatic and legal repercussions if the case proceeds.
