Former Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has appeared in newly released photographs from his detention in the United States, months after he was captured during a US military operation in Caracas ordered by President Donald Trump. Maduro’s official account on X published the photographs on Sunday, describing them as a “small……
Former Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has appeared in newly released photographs from his detention in the United States, months after he was captured during a US military operation in Caracas ordered by President Donald Trump.
Maduro’s official account on X published the photographs on Sunday, describing them as a “small gift of love and hope” for his grandchildren, children and supporters. The images, dated June 25, 2026, show Maduro with an animated expression while in US custody.
The photographs were released nearly eight months after US forces captured Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, during a military operation in Caracas on January 3, 2026. The operation, announced by Trump, involved US military strikes in Venezuela before American forces seized the couple and transported them to the United States.
Maduro’s capture brought an abrupt end to his 13-year presidency and triggered a major political upheaval in Venezuela. Delcy Rodríguez subsequently assumed office as the country’s interim president following Maduro’s removal.
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The former Venezuelan leader was transferred to New York to face federal charges brought by US prosecutors. The charges include conspiracy to commit narco-terrorism, conspiracy to import cocaine into the United States, possession of machine guns and destructive devices, and conspiracy to possess such weapons.
US authorities have accused Maduro of involvement in a long-running drug-trafficking network and alleged links to the Cartel of the Suns. Maduro has denied the allegations.
In the message accompanying the photographs, Maduro said he wanted the images to serve as a message of affection to his family and supporters.
“I send these photos as a small gift to all my grandchildren, to the boys and girls, and to all the noble people who love us,” he wrote.
He said he remained firm despite his detention and expressed gratitude to supporters for what he described as their prayers, solidarity and continued support.
“I want you to know that we are steadfast, with our hearts full of your love, that love that reaches us transformed into prayer, into permanent action, into solidarity and true support. Infinite thanks for every word, for every gesture, for every blessing,” Maduro said.
He concluded the message by referring to his wife and reaffirming his religious faith.
“Cilia and I embrace you forever, with our souls set on you and with faith intact in God. God will provide. Venezuela will be reborn.”
