> At a Glance
> – Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and wife Cilia Flores sustained bruises during the U.S. raid
> – Injuries happened before Delta Force reached them, after they bumped into a safe-room wall or door
> – Couple pleaded not guilty in New York federal court to drug conspiracy charges
> – Why it matters: The first public account of how the couple was injured during the high-stakes operation
Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores were bruised while hiding inside a safe room as U.S. special forces stormed their Caracas compound early Saturday, according to U.S. officials.
How the Injuries Occurred
The couple’s injuries happened moments before American troops made contact. A person familiar with the operation said Maduro and Flores accidentally struck the wall or door of the reinforced room, causing visible bruising and bleeding.
U.S. forces breached the residence around 1 a.m. ET using flash-bang devices designed to disorient. The injuries appear consistent with the couple reacting to the blasts inside the confined space.
Timeline of key events:
- Approx. 1 a.m. ET Saturday: Delta Force enters compound
- Pre-contact: Couple bumps into safe-room surfaces
- Post-capture: Medical evaluation aboard U.S. aircraft
- Monday morning: First court appearance in New York
Medical Aftermath and Court Appearance
Both were examined aboard the military aircraft that flew them to Stewart Air National Guard Base north of New York City. When Flores appeared in court Monday, attorneys noted she had facial bruises and possible fractured ribs; Maduro said he had broader health issues.
Maduro told the judge:
> “I am a prisoner of war.”
Flores’ attorney added:
> “Our client is in good spirits. We look forward to reviewing and challenging the evidence the government has.”
Both pleaded not guilty to drug-trafficking conspiracy charges.
Key Takeaways
- The couple’s injuries were accidental and occurred before direct contact with U.S. troops
- Flash-bangs used in the breach may have contributed to disorientation inside the safe room
- Medical issues are now part of pre-trial discussions in New York
- Defense teams plan to contest the government’s evidence
Federal prosecutors will now prepare for a case built around the dramatic capture that left the Venezuelan leader physically shaken but formally in U.S. custody.
