At a Glance
- President Nicolas Maduro and first lady Cilia Flores were flown out of Venezuela after Saturday explosions.
- They face narcoterrorism charges in the United States.
- President Donald Trump claimed they were captured and flown out of the country.
- Why it matters: The event marks a dramatic shift in Venezuela’s leadership and triggers international legal action.
Early Saturday, Caracas was rocked by multiple explosions and low-flying aircraft as the Maduro government accused the United States of striking civilian and military sites. The incident prompted the flight of President Maduro and his wife, who are now facing U.S. narcoterrorism charges.
Explosion and Accusations
Low-flying aircraft swept through Caracas while explosions rang out, leading Maduro’s government to immediately blame the United States for attacking civilian and military installations. The attacks occurred in the very early hours of Saturday.
International Response
The attack has drawn condemnation from leaders in Russia, the United Kingdom and Mexico, among others. Legal experts have also cast doubt on the strikes’ legitimacy.
- Russia
- United Kingdom
- Mexico
Legal Proceedings
Attorney General Pam Bondi later announced that the couple has been indicted in the Southern District of New York on narcoterrorism and other charges. President Donald Trump set a news conference for 11 a.m. ET to address the situation.
President Donald Trump said:
> “has been, along with his wife, captured and flown out of the Country.”
Key Takeaways
- Maduro and his wife were flown out after explosions.
- They face U.S. narcoterrorism charges.
- Trump claims they were captured; international leaders condemn the attack.
The flight of Venezuela’s top officials and the ensuing U.S. indictments highlight a tense geopolitical moment that could reshape regional dynamics.
