New York | January 4, 2026
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky made a striking statement following the dramatic capture of Venezuela’s deposed president Nicolás Maduro by U.S. authorities. Speaking at a press conference, Zelensky implied that the United States now knows how to deal with authoritarian leaders, a remark widely interpreted as directed at Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Asked about Maduro’s capture, Zelensky said, “What can I say? If this can happen to dictators, the U.S. knows what the next step should be.” Analysts suggest his comments were a clear allusion to Russia’s current political posture.
Russia Demands Maduro’s Release
Meanwhile, Russia formally urged the U.S. to release Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores. In a post on X, the Russian Foreign Ministry stated that Maduro is Venezuela’s legitimately elected president and called for immediate release. Moscow also emphasized that any disputes between the U.S. and Venezuela should be resolved through dialogue.
U.S. Legal Proceedings
According to U.S. President Donald Trump, Maduro and his wife were captured in Caracas through a joint U.S. operation and transported to America. They now face charges related to drug trafficking and narco-terrorism in the Southern District of New York.
The U.S. also released footage showing Maduro being escorted in handcuffs in a so-called “perp walk.” Reports indicate that he will be held at the Metropolitan Detention Center in New York, known for its harsh conditions, until his trial begins.
