> At a Glance
> – Cilia Flores suffered “significant injuries” during the U.S. military raid that captured her and Nicolás Maduro in Caracas on Jan. 3
> – The couple faced federal court in NYC on Jan. 5, both pleading not guilty to narco-terrorism and cocaine-import charges
> – Flores appeared with facial bandages and rib bruises; the judge ordered prosecutors to ensure she receives medical care
> – Why it matters: The dramatic U.S. operation and subsequent prosecution mark a major escalation in Washington’s effort to oust Maduro
A predawn U.S. military strike in Caracas seized Nicolás Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores, leaving Flores injured and both facing federal narco-terrorism charges in a New York courtroom just two days later.
The Raid and Injuries
Flores’ attorney, former federal prosecutor Mark Donnelly, told U.S. District Judge Alvin Hellerstein that she sustained “significant injuries during her abduction” when American forces stormed the couple’s compound.
Court photos show Flores wearing facial bandages; her lawyer added she also complained of bruised ribs. Judge Hellerstein directed prosecutors to coordinate with Donnelly so she receives necessary treatment.
Courtroom Scene
Arriving in leg shackles and prison garb, the pair entered not-guilty pleas:
- Maduro faces four counts, including narco-terrorism and conspiracy to import cocaine.
- Flores answered related charges.
President Trump later recounted that Maduro tried to reach a safe room but failed to close its heavy door. “We would have had the door blown up in about 47 seconds,” he said, underscoring U.S. determination to capture the Venezuelan leader.
Charges and Co-defendants
The indictment also names:
- Maduro’s son
- Two high-ranking Venezuelan officials
- An alleged leader of the Tren de Aragua gang
In court, Maduro insisted he remains “president of Venezuela,” while Flores told the judge she is “first lady of the Republic of Venezuela,” signaling they still claim legitimacy despite U.S. efforts.
Key Takeaways
- U.S. special forces captured Maduro and Flores inside Venezuela on Jan. 3
- Flores suffered visible injuries and is receiving medical attention per court order
- Both defendants deny narco-terrorism and drug-import charges
- The Trump administration is using the case to justify removing Maduro from power
The surprise raid and swift transfer to a federal courtroom mark a dramatic new chapter in U.S.-Venezuela tensions.
