The Trump administration has declared that captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, will face "the full wrath of American justice" in U.S. courts over longstanding allegations of drug trafficking and narco-terrorism. U.S. Attorney General Pamela Bondi announced on January 3, 2026, that the couple has been indicted in the Southern District of New York, with Maduro charged on counts including narco-terrorism conspiracy, cocaine importation conspiracy, possession of machineguns and destructive devices, and conspiracy to possess such weapons.
Bondi, in a post on X, stated: "They will soon face the full wrath of American justice on American soil in American courts." She thanked President Trump and U.S. military forces for the operation that led to their capture, describing Maduro and Flores as "alleged international narco traffickers." The charges build on a 2020 indictment against Maduro and others for leading the "Cartel de los Soles," accused of flooding the U.S. with cocaine as a weapon, with Flores newly added in what appears to be a superseding indictment.
The announcement followed President Donald Trump's early morning post on Truth Social confirming a "large-scale strike" on Venezuela, during which Maduro and Flores were captured and flown out of the country. "The United States of America has successfully carried out a large scale strike against Venezuela and its leader, President Nicolas Maduro, who has been, along with his wife, captured and flown out of the Country," Trump wrote. "This operation was done in conjunction with U.S. Law Enforcement." Trump later told Fox News the couple was aboard the USS Iwo Jima en route to New York for trial.
Trump scheduled a news conference at his Mar-a-Lago residence in Florida to elaborate on the operation, which involved airstrikes on military targets in Caracas and other areas, causing explosions and fires at sites like Fuerte Tiuna and La Carlota air base. The action escalated months of pressure, including naval deployments and strikes on alleged drug vessels. Trump framed it as accountability for Maduro's alleged role in a "narco-state."
Venezuela declared a national state of emergency, denouncing the strikes as aggression and demanding proof of life for Maduro. International reactions were polarized: allies condemned it as illegal, while some opposition figures expressed relief.
The indictment centers on Maduro's alleged leadership of a drug trafficking network using cocaine to undermine U.S. security, with potential life sentences. Flores' inclusion expands the case, highlighting family involvement.
Legal experts debate the operation's constitutionality, citing lack of congressional authorization. Bondi's emphasis on existing indictments provides justification under law enforcement extension.
As Maduro heads to trial—potentially in Manhattan federal court—the case revives U.S. efforts against foreign leaders on drug charges, echoing Noriega's 1989 capture.
Trump's move fulfills campaign rhetoric against "narco-states," but risks diplomatic fallout and oil market volatility.
The administration signals no further military action, focusing on justice and Venezuelan transition.
The capture's execution involved elite units coordinating with law enforcement, blending military and judicial objectives. Bondi's role underscores the Justice Department's centrality in post-operation proceedings.
Maduro's indictment offered a $15 million reward previously, now realized through direct action. The superseding charges against Flores implicate her in the conspiracy, broadening prosecutorial scope.
Prosecutors allege the cartel partnered with Colombian guerrillas, flooding markets with tons of cocaine annually. Evidence includes witness testimonies and seized communications.
Trial preparations in New York involve heightened security, with venue considerations for fairness and safety. Defense arguments may challenge jurisdiction and extradition legality.
Globally, the event prompts reevaluation of U.S. extraterritorial enforcement, balancing sovereignty with transnational crime pursuit.
Venezuelan officials rally support, framing it as imperialism. Domestic U.S. debate centers on executive powers in foreign affairs.
As proceedings advance, the case could set precedents for holding heads of state accountable while navigating diplomatic norms.
Trump's conference may detail operational insights and future Latin America policy, signaling tougher stances on adversaries.
The episode marks a bold second-term opener, prioritizing "America First" through decisive action against perceived threats.
Long-term, outcomes hinge on trial fairness, Venezuelan stability, and international relations recalibration.
This development encapsulates Trump's approach: leveraging military and legal tools for strategic goals, amid polarized global views.
