Release date
Nicolas Maduro is currently being held at New York City’s Metropolitan Detention Center (MDC Brooklyn) after landing at New York City’s small airport on Saturday night local time.
Video released by authorities shows the de facto former Venezuelan leader exiting the plane in handcuffs and surrounded by U.S. officials.
In the videos and photos released, President Maduro is seen wearing sportswear, including a sports jacket and hat, sweatpants, white socks, and flip-flops.
This may indicate the speed of the operation and how surprised Maduro was, with US network CNN reporting that he and his wife were asleep before being dragged from the bedroom when US forces entered the mansion.
“Good night, happy new year”
Footage released by U.S. authorities shows the former dictator being frog-pushed through a hallway by federal agents. They walk on a carpet inscribed with “DEA NYD,” “Rule of Law,” and “Respect.” Apparently aware that he was being photographed, President Maduro could be heard saying, “Good night and Happy New Year.”
In another video, Maduro appeared to be injured as U.S. officials pulled him from his car. The footage sparked speculation that he may have been injured while being detained in Caracas.
Operation “Absolute Solution”
The U.S. military operation to capture Maduro took place early Saturday morning, with the attack lasting less than 30 minutes and at least seven explosions heard around the capital, Caracas.
In an apparent surprise, Trump later said Maduro’s hideout was a military “fortress” in central Caracas. “They were waiting for us in a ready position. They knew we were coming,” he added.
Further explaining the attack, he said: “They just got in, and they got in a place that you wouldn’t really be able to get into. You know, a steel door that was put in just for this purpose.”
US Air Force Gen. Kaine, who is also chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, provided further information on the tactical background, saying, “Suppression forces descended on President Maduro’s compound and acted with speed, precision and discipline,” adding that the “meticulously planned” mission involved more than 150 aircraft.
