Maduro’s First Words After US Capture: “Good Night, Happy New Year” in New York
Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro spoke his first public words January 3, 2026 arriving New York handcuffed custody: “Good night, Happy New Year.” Viral video captures surreal moment Delta Force captured Caracas leader smiling greeting US agents DEA facility transfer. Dramatic composure marks historic regime change operation.
Timeline: From Caracas Capture to New York Arrival
Delta Force raided Maduro residence early January 3 capturing leader wife Cilia Flores. Helicopters transported pair USS Iwo Jima offshore then Stewart Air National Guard Base New York. Video shows handcuffed Maduro walking calmly flanked federal agents smiling English greeting despite narco-terrorism indictment awaiting.
Arrival timing late evening New York—greeting reflects New Year’s context despite circumstances. Metropolitan Detention Center Brooklyn holds pending Southern District arraignment.
| Time | Event |
|---|---|
| 02:00 VET | Caracas residence raid |
| 03:00 VET | USS Iwo Jima transfer |
| Evening EST | New York arrival “Happy New Year” |
The Viral Video Moment
Handheld footage shows Maduro handcuffed orange jumpsuit escorted federal facility. Leader maintains eye contact smiles saying “Good night, Happy New Year” English agents respond professionally. Calm demeanor contrasts dramatic fall 25-year Chavista rule. Video White House Rapid Response X account accelerates global spread.
Reactions divide sharply: Miami Venezuelans celebrate, Caracas protests demand release. Trump posts “Venezuela free” Truth Social.
Legal Situation & Charges Facing Maduro
Southern District New York unseals 2020 narco-terrorism indictment: cocaine trafficking FARC rebels, machine guns, narco-state allegations. $50 million bounty doubled 2025. Wife Cilia Flores co-defendant PSUV power broker. AG Pam Bondi confirms federal detention processing complete.
Reactions to Maduro’s New York Greeting
Surreal courtesy shocks observers. Opposition celebrates “dictator jokes captors.” Chavistas call defiance imperialism. Social media memes multiply: “Maduro New Year’s toast DEA.” Timing late December heightens irony amid global year-end celebrations.
What Happens Next in Maduro Case
Arraignment expected January 6-8 SDNY. Discovery process narco-terrorism evidence begins. Plea negotiations possible cooperation US transition plans. Extradition wife Flores pending. Venezuela interim leadership Delcy Rodríguez demands immediate release.
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Maduro say first US capture?
“Good night, Happy New Year” smiling federal agents New York arrival.
Where Maduro detained now?
Metropolitan Detention Center Brooklyn pending SDNY arraignment.
Facing what charges?
Narco-terrorism conspiracy, cocaine trafficking, weapons SDNY 2020 indictment.
Maduro’s calm New Year’s greeting captors symbolizes extraordinary fall. Historic footage documents Venezuela regime change moment. Trial developments follow rapidly.
Last Updated January 04, 2026 3:56 PM IST. Video verified authentic.
