Venezuelan President captured in U.S. operation, facing drug trafficking charges

Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, made their initial appearances in a federal court in New York City, NY. This came after their capture by U.S. forces in a military operation in the Venezuelan capital of Caracas. Maduro and Flores are among six defendants named in a four-count superseding indictment that accused them of conspiring with violent, dangerous drug traffickers for the last 25 years. Maduro has long denied all the allegations and pleaded not guilty to the charges on January 5, 2026.

Dr. Evelyn Farkas, the Executive Director of the McCain Institute, joined “Arizona Horizon” to discuss the legality of the U.S.’ move and potential fallout.

President Donald Trump has offered two different reasons for the capture: accusing Maduro of drug trafficking and also to take control of the country’s oil supply. President Trump also said the U.S. will run Venezuela until a suitable leader can be identified. However, the country’s VP Delcy Rodriguez has taken the helm.

Dr. Farkas explained members of Congress have said they were not informed of the capture plan ahead of time. And many countries have come forth to denounce the capture, saying it is illegal and breaks the policies of the United Nations.

“I think people like me can find merit in getting rid of Maduro,” Dr. Farkas said, “But the biggest questions are what’s next, and it doesn’t seem like there’s a clear plan, and part of that has to do with lack of clarity about the objective.”

Dr. Farkas emphasized how many are confused and concerned with the lack of clarity regarding the United States involvement in Venezuela.

“The Venezuelan armed forces have to be on the side of U.S. interest, and that is unclear right now,” Dr. Farkas explained, “This newly sworn in, former vice president under Maduro, who’s completely corrupt said now she’s going to toe the line and do what the United States does; I don’t think that’s credible.”

Dr. Farkas discussed how important it is for citizens to stay involved and urged members of Congress to be vigilant.

“You’re going to be running to Capitol Hill,” Dr. Farkas said, “You’re going to be reminding members of Congress that they have the responsibility to declare war going forward. Congress has to authorize further military force, which it has not done.”