Up First from NPR Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro is in New York City, faces narcoterrorism charges
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Jan 4, 2026 
In this discussion, Greg Myrie, a national security correspondent, reveals the tactical detail behind the U.S. operation that captured Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro. Carrie Johnson, a justice correspondent, breaks down the serious narcoterrorism charges against him and the legal justifications for the operation. Ada Peralta adds local context, highlighting mixed reactions in Venezuela and insights into the interim leadership by Vice President Delcy Rodriguez. Together, they illuminate the complexities of this unfolding geopolitical drama.
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Maduro Held In Brooklyn After Night Raid
- The U.S. captured Nicolás Maduro and moved him to a federal detention center in Brooklyn after a nighttime operation.
- Ada Peralta reports Maduro arrived by plane, was taken by helicopter past the Statue of Liberty, and is now facing federal charges in New York.
Extensive Planning And Large Air Campaign
- The operation used months of CIA intelligence and over 150 aircraft to disable defenses and extract Maduro.
- U.S. officials say special operations teams seized Maduro with no U.S. casualties, while Venezuelan authorities report some killings.
Delcy Rodríguez Declared Interim, Speaks Defiantly
- Vice President Delcy Rodríguez has been named interim president by Venezuela's top court and chairs the defense council.
- Rodríguez publicly called the U.S. attacks barbaric and affirmed Maduro remains the country's president in defiant remarks.