Trump Announces Venezuela Will Buy Only American-Made Products From New Oil Deal Funds U.S. President Donald J. Trump announced that Venezuela will use proceeds from a newly agreed oil deal to purchase exclusively American-made products, strengthening economic ties between the two countries. The announcement was made via Trump’s Truth social media platform, where he outlined that the purchases will span several key U.S. industries, including agriculture, medicines, medical devices, and energy infrastructure equipment to improve Venezuela’s electric grid and energy facilities. Trump framed the agreement as a strategic move that positions the United States as Venezuela’s principal commercial partner, describing it as a “wise choice” benefiting both nations. The oil deal allows Venezuela to export $2 billion worth of crude oil to the U.S., diverting supplies away from China and helping Caracas avoid production cuts caused by export restrictions and storage bottlenecks. The agreement comes amid heightened U.S. pressure on Venezuela, which previously included sanctions and a blockade on oil exports starting in mid-December 2025. The deal also reflects compliance by Venezuelan authorities with U.S. demands to open the oil sector to American companies, signaling a potential shift in U.S.–Venezuela relations after months of tension. This arrangement is expected to boost U.S. exports, support key domestic industries, and expand U.S. influence in the South American energy market, while providing Venezuela access to critical products and technology to modernize its energy infrastructure.

Venezuela Confirms 100 Dead After U.S. Operation Captures President Maduro Venezuelan authorities have confirmed that at least 100 people died during the U.S. military operation that led to the capture of President Nicolás Maduro on Saturday, January 4, 2026. The announcement came from Venezuela’s Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello, marking the first official death toll since the controversial raid. Cabello revealed that a significant portion of Maduro’s security team was killed “in cold blood,” while Cuban military and intelligence personnel operating in Venezuela were also reportedly killed. Maduro’s wife, Cilia Flores, sustained a head injury, and Maduro himself suffered a leg injury during the attack. The operation occurred amid escalating tensions between the U.S. and Venezuela, following years of sanctions, political disputes, and accusations of governance and security failures by Maduro’s administration. The U.S. justified the raid by citing Maduro’s alleged involvement in drug trafficking and narco-terrorism, claiming his government shipped tons of cocaine into the United States. Following the operation, former U.S. President Donald Trump stated that the U.S. intended to take control of Venezuela’s oil industry, asserting that American investment originally built the infrastructure now under Maduro’s administration. Maduro, speaking publicly for the first time after being taken to the U.S., described himself as “kidnapped” and denied all allegations. Venezuelan authorities have declared a week of mourning for the military personnel killed, describing them as “courageous” for their role in defending the country. The operation has further strained international relations and intensified scrutiny on U.S. foreign interventions in Latin America.

US Seizes Oil Tanker Linked to Venezuela and Russia Over Sanctions Violation January 7, 2026 – International The United States has confirmed the seizure of an oil tanker accused of violating U.S. sanctions, marking a major enforcement action against vessels attempting to bypass American restrictions. The tanker, originally identified as M/V Bella 1, had been renamed Marinera and was operating under a Russian flag while sailing in the North Atlantic. Reports indicate that the vessel previously flew a Guyana flag before its re-registration under Russia. The U.S. European Command stated that the seizure was executed in coordination with multiple federal agencies, including the Department of Justice and the Department of Homeland Security. Tracking operations were supported by the U.S. Coast Guard cutter Munro. According to officials, the operation was carried out pursuant to a U.S. federal court warrant and reflects a “whole-of-government” approach to protecting U.S. interests and enforcing sanctions. “The seizure supports the President’s proclamation targeting sanctioned vessels that threaten security and stability in the Western Hemisphere,” the U.S. European Command noted. Officials emphasized that the action was carefully planned to avoid environmental damage and focused on recovering the tanker rather than sinking it. This operation follows recent diplomatic talks between U.S. and Venezuelan officials regarding potential exports of Venezuelan crude to American refineries along the Gulf Coast. U.S. refineries, which have historically processed Venezuela’s heavy crude, are reportedly capable of handling future imports once sanctions allow. Sources noted that the discussions come after years of restrictions that curtailed Venezuelan oil exports to the United States. The seizure also comes in the wake of a controversial U.S. military operation in Venezuela in early January 2026, which resulted in the capture of President Nicolás Maduro and his wife. The U.S. justified the operation by citing federal indictments accusing Maduro’s government of drug trafficking and narco-terrorism, alleging that the regime helped ship large quantities of cocaine into the United States. Following the operation, former President Donald Trump openly declared that the U.S. intended to take control of Venezuela’s oil industry, which he claimed was built with American investment and seized by Maduro. In his first public comments after being taken to the U.S., Maduro described himself as “kidnapped” and insisted on his innocence. The tanker seizure is seen as part of ongoing U.S. efforts to reassert influence over sanctioned energy exports and prevent regimes like Venezuela and Russia from profiting from illicit oil trade. Experts note that the operation highlights the strategic importance of maritime enforcement in the global energy market and underscores the U.S.’s commitment to sanctions enforcement. The tanker, part of what officials have described as a “shadow fleet” circumventing international regulations, was carefully monitored for weeks before the operation, demonstrating the complexity of tracking and intercepting high-value maritime targets. The U.S. emphasized that similar operations may continue against vessels suspected of violating sanctions, particularly those tied to sanctioned nations or illicit networks. The seizure reinforces the administration’s dual approach of diplomatic engagement and targeted enforcement to secure energy markets and uphold international sanctions.

US special forces have arrived in the United Kingdom as Washington moves to intercept a sanctioned oil tanker accused of evading the Trump administration’s blockade on Venezuelan crude and racing toward Russia. Cargo aircraft carrying helicopters and personnel landed at RAF Fairford, as US and allied forces stage for a possible high-risk boarding operation against the tanker Marinera, formerly known as Bella 1. The vessel, described by US officials as part of a “shadow fleet” used to bypass international sanctions, is believed to be operating under a Russian flag in the North Atlantic, roughly 500 miles west of Ireland, en route to Russia. Troops from America’s 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment, known as the Night Stalkers, have reportedly deployed Black Hawk and Chinook helicopters capable of fast-roping commandos onto large vessels. Three V-22 Ospreys operating out of RAF Mildenhall have also joined the mission, alongside surveillance aircraft and refuelling jets. US and UK military activity intensified after the tanker was tracked resurfacing at sea, having previously slipped away from US forces in the Caribbean following Donald Trump’s announcement of a “total and complete blockade” on Venezuelan oil exports. The tanker is alleged to be linked to Iran and accused of helping sanctioned regimes, including those of Vladimir Putin and Nicolás Maduro, continue oil trading despite restrictions. During the pursuit, the crew reportedly painted a Russian flag on the hull and later re-registered the ship under a new name in Russia. Defence sources said the build-up at RAF Fairford indicates preparations for a hostile boarding, while naval patrol aircraft continue to monitor the tanker’s movements. US officials told American media that the preference is to seize the tanker rather than sink it, mirroring a helicopter-borne raid carried out last month on another sanctioned vessel. A decision on whether to proceed with the operation is expected within days.

Why Did the US and Venezuela Sign a $2 Billion Oil Deal Now? Is Maduro’s Crisis Reshaping Global Energy Politics?” The United States and Venezuela have signed a controversial agreement allowing the export of $2 billion worth of Venezuelan crude oil to the U.S., a move that has triggered intense global debate. Announced by former U.S. President Donald Trump, the deal is being described as a major shift in relations between Washington and Caracas—coming at a time when Venezuela is grappling with political instability, economic collapse, and international sanctions. But the big question on Fintter is: Why now? According to U.S. officials, the agreement is designed to redirect Venezuelan oil away from China, weaken Beijing’s grip on the country’s energy sector, and prevent Venezuela from suffering deeper production cuts due to storage backlogs and export restrictions. Trump described the deal as a “flagship negotiation,” insisting that it reflects Venezuela’s compliance with U.S. demands to open its oil industry to American companies. Even more striking is the political backdrop. The deal comes after the reported capture of President Nicolás Maduro by U.S. forces, a move Venezuelan authorities have denounced as a “kidnapping” and an attempt by Washington to seize control of the country’s vast oil resources. While the U.S. claims the proceeds from the oil sales will be managed to benefit both nations, it remains unclear whether Venezuela’s state oil company PDVSA will gain any real financial access, given that it is still largely frozen out of the global financial system by U.S. sanctions. Trump further stated that 30 to 50 million barrels of what he called “sanctioned oil” would be transferred to the United States at market prices, with the U.S. government controlling the revenue. Energy Secretary Chris Wright is expected to oversee the operation, with crude shipped directly from tankers to U.S. ports. Industry insiders revealed that some shipments initially bound for China will now be redirected to the U.S.—potentially ending Beijing’s dominance as Venezuela’s biggest crude buyer. Market reactions were swift. U.S. oil prices dropped by more than 1.5%, while heavy crude prices along the Gulf Coast slipped amid expectations of increased supply. Currently, only Chevron is authorized to export Venezuelan crude under a special U.S. license, handling between 100,000 and 150,000 barrels per day, but this deal could dramatically expand that flow. At the same time, Venezuela’s oil output remains under threat. Storage shortages caused by the embargo have already forced production cuts, and industry sources warn that without stable export routes, output could decline even further. Meanwhile, discussions are ongoing about whether Venezuelan oil could eventually be used in the U.S. Strategic Petroleum Reserve, raising even bigger geopolitical implications. So, Fintter readers are left with powerful questions: Is this deal truly about helping Venezuela’s collapsing economy—or is it a strategic move to weaken China’s influence in global energy markets? Will Venezuelans actually benefit from this agreement, or will control of their oil wealth remain in foreign hands? Does this mark a new era of U.S.–Venezuela relations, or is it simply a high-stakes political maneuver tied to Maduro’s crisis? As global energy politics continue to shift, this $2 billion oil agreement could reshape not only Venezuela’s future, but also the balance of power between the U.S., China, and Latin America. 👉 What do you think, Fintter community? Is this a breakthrough for Venezuela—or another chapter in global resource politics? Drop your thoughts in the comments.

“Sowore Accuses Global Powers of Exploiting Resource-Rich Countries Under Humanitarian Pretext: Venezuela Crisis Highlighted” Nigerian human rights activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore has sharply criticized the recent Venezuelan crisis, in which U.S. and allied forces reportedly captured President Nicolás Maduro and his wife. Writing on his X (formerly Twitter) account, Sowore described the operation as a violation of international law and Venezuela’s sovereignty, framing it as a pattern of global powers using humanitarian or security pretexts to intervene in resource-rich nations. Sowore contends that the official narrative of fighting drug cartels or promoting moral rescue is often a smokescreen for strategic and economic exploitation. He draws parallels to past interventions in Iraq and Libya, arguing that the true motives of foreign powers are resource extraction, destabilization, and maintaining global dominance, leaving affected countries perpetually poor and vulnerable. Criticizing former U.S. President Donald Trump, Sowore described him as “merely the latest rider of this global Trojan horse,” highlighting that while rhetoric changes, the machinery of exploitation remains consistent. Sowore emphasized that such interventions are tragic for humanity, as entire societies bear the cost while foreign powers profit under the guise of benevolence. His comments come amid widespread international condemnation of the Venezuelan operation, with several African governments and activist groups questioning the legality of such actions. Sowore’s critique reignites debate over foreign interventions, exposing the tension between humanitarian claims and underlying geopolitical and economic interests.

ADC Criticizes Tinubu’s Silence on Venezuela Crisis, Warns Nigeria Has Lost Global Diplomatic Voice in International Affairs The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has condemned the Nigerian government under President Bola Tinubu for failing to publicly respond to recent political developments in Venezuela, describing the silence as a national embarrassment and a decline in Nigeria’s international influence. ADC National Publicity Secretary Bolaji Abdullahi said Nigeria’s absence from global conversations undermines its historic role as a leading diplomatic voice in Africa and West Africa. He contrasted the current administration’s inaction with past Nigerian leaders like Jaja Nwachukwu and Joseph Garba, who took firm stances on major international issues. Abdullahi further suggested that Nigeria’s reluctance to speak reflects internal vulnerabilities and a lack of moral courage, warning that the country’s diminished presence on the global stage is abnormal for its stature. The remarks follow outrage over the U.S. military’s capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife.

Venezuela and U.S. Hold Talks to Resume Venezuelan Crude Exports to Gulf Coast Refineries Amid Sanctions Reversal and Maduro Capture Venezuela and United States officials are reportedly in discussions to resume the export of Venezuelan crude to U.S. refineries, particularly along the Gulf Coast, which have historically processed the country’s heavy crude. The talks come after years of sanctions restricted Venezuelan oil access to the U.S. market, imposed during the Trump administration. The renewed engagement follows a controversial U.S. military operation in early January 2026 that resulted in the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife. The U.S. cited drug trafficking and narco-terrorism allegations against Maduro, while he described his capture as a “kidnapping” and denied wrongdoing. The potential resumption of exports is seen as part of broader U.S. efforts to reassert control over Venezuela’s oil industry. No formal agreement has been reached yet, and discussions are ongoing. Historically, U.S. sanctions and geopolitical tensions sharply curtailed Venezuela’s oil production and revenues, forcing the country to redirect shipments elsewhere.

Interim President Delcy Rodríguez Says Venezuela Is Fully in Control of Its Affairs Venezuela’s interim leader Delcy Rodríguez has publicly rejected claims that any foreign power especially the United States is running her country. In a televised address from Caracas, she insisted that “the government of Venezuela is in charge in our country, and no-one else,” and that “there is no foreign agent governing Venezuela.” Her remarks came after U.S. President Donald Trump said Washington would oversee Venezuela during a transition period following a U.S. military operation that captured former President Nicolás Maduro.

UK, France, Germany, and EU Allies Stand with Denmark Against Trump’s Threat to Annex Greenland The United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, Poland, Spain, and Denmark have jointly rejected U.S. President Donald Trump’s threat to annex Greenland. The European leaders emphasized that Greenland is part of the Kingdom of Denmark and NATO territory, insisting that Arctic security must follow international law, collective defense, and respect for sovereignty. They highlighted that unilateral actions by the U.S. could undermine NATO, and stressed that Greenland’s governance is exclusively for Denmark and Greenland to decide. The move comes amid heightened tensions following U.S. actions in Venezuela and growing strategic interest in the Arctic region. #Greenland #Trump #Denmark #EUUnity #ArcticSecurity #NATO #InternationalLaw #Geopolitics #TransatlanticRelations #EuropeNews

South African President Ramaphosa Condemns U.S. Actions in Venezuela, Demands Release of President Maduro South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has strongly condemned U.S. actions in Venezuela, describing them as a violation of international law and the United Nations Charter. Speaking in a video posted on his X account, Ramaphosa stated that the United States undermined Venezuela’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, calling for the immediate release of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife. He emphasized that such foreign interference threatens global peace and stability, urging the United Nations Security Council to take decisive action to maintain international peace and security. Ramaphosa affirmed South Africa’s support for the Venezuelan people in the face of what he described as external aggression and political destabilization, warning that inaction by the UN could encourage further violations of international norms and deepen instability worldwide. #Ramaphosa #Venezuela #Maduro #USInterference #InternationalLaw #UNCharter #GlobalPeace #SouthAfrica #Diplomacy #WorldNews

US Justice Department Softens Drug Trafficking Case Against Ousted Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, Scales Back ‘Cartel de los Soles’ Claims in Revised Indictment The United States Justice Department has quietly retreated from one of its most high-profile allegations against ousted Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro—that he led a powerful international drug cartel known as the Cartel de los Soles. A newly released, revised indictment significantly reduces references to the group and no longer portrays it as a formal criminal organization or identifies Maduro as its leader. Originally, a 2020 indictment during the first Trump administration depicted the Cartel de los Soles as a unified narcotics cartel headed by Maduro, accusing him of using cocaine trafficking as a “weapon” against the United States and of collaborating with Colombia’s FARC rebels. Those claims later formed the basis for escalated U.S. actions, including the Treasury Department’s 2025 designation of the cartel as a terrorist organization and a similar move by the State Department under Secretary of State Marco Rubio. However, crime experts and Latin American analysts have long disputed the existence of the Cartel de los Soles as a structured organization, describing it instead as media slang for corrupt officials who profit from drug trafficking. The revised indictment reflects this view, recharacterizing the cartel as a “patronage system” and “culture of corruption” rather than a concrete criminal entity. The term now appears only twice, compared with more than 30 mentions in the original filing. While prosecutors still accuse Maduro of participating in a drug trafficking conspiracy, they now allege that he protected and benefited from a corrupt network rather than commanding a formal cartel. Analysts, including Elizabeth Dickinson of the International Crisis Group, say the updated indictment aligns more closely with reality, though they question why earlier terrorism designations remain in place despite the lack of courtroom proof. The shift has also raised political and legal questions about the justification for previous U.S. actions. Notably, the Cartel de los Soles has never been identified as a major trafficking organization in reports by the DEA or the United Nations. Despite the revisions, Rubio has continued to publicly describe the cartel as a functioning criminal group, insisting that Maduro remains its leader. Overall, the development marks a significant recalibration of the U.S. government’s case against Maduro—undermining a central narrative used to justify sanctions and designations, while still maintaining accusations of involvement in drug trafficking and systemic corruption.

BBC Bars Journalists From Using ‘Kidnapped’ to Describe Nicolas Maduro’s Arrest by US Forces, Sparks Global Media Ethics Debate After Trump Backs Term A controversy has erupted over the BBC’s editorial guidelines following the arrest of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro by United States forces. According to socialist commentator Owen Jones, BBC journalists were instructed through an internal memo not to describe the incident as a “kidnapping,” despite that term being used by Venezuelan officials and even accepted by U.S. President Donald Trump. The memo, circulated by the BBC News Editor, advised reporters to use terms such as “captured”—attributed to the U.S. account of events—or “seized” in the corporation’s own reporting, while explicitly cautioning: “Avoid using ‘Kidnapped.’” Jones shared the directive publicly, triggering widespread debate about editorial independence, language framing, and media neutrality in covering sensitive international operations. The backlash intensified after President Trump, speaking aboard Air Force One, said he had no objection to describing Maduro’s detention as a kidnapping, responding: “It’s alright. It’s not a bad term.” Trump confirmed that Maduro had been taken into U.S. custody and transferred to New York, following what U.S. authorities called a surprise operation. Venezuela’s then–Vice President Delcy Rodríguez, who has since been sworn in as interim president, had earlier labeled the action a “kidnapping.” In court, Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores pleaded not guilty to multiple charges, including narco-terrorism conspiracy, cocaine trafficking, and weapons-related offences. Maduro told the court he was “kidnapped” and “captured” from his Caracas residence, declaring himself a “prisoner of war.” The developments have intensified scrutiny of both U.S. actions in Venezuela and the BBC’s editorial choices, with critics arguing the language ban reflects political sensitivity, while defenders say it ensures accuracy and consistency. The episode has reignited global debate over media ethics, word choice in conflict reporting, and the power of language in shaping public perception of international crises.

Nigeria-Based Venezuela Solidarity Group Condemns US Threats, Demands Release of President Maduro and Wife The Venezuela Solidarity Campaign in Nigeria (VSCN) has voiced strong opposition to alleged U.S. military and economic aggression against Venezuela, calling for the immediate release of President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, whom the group claims were “illegally abducted” by the Trump administration—a claim yet unverified. The coalition condemned attempts to justify foreign intervention in Venezuela under the guise of fighting drugs and arms smuggling, alleging that Venezuela’s oil and resources are the real targets. They also warned against similar threats to Greenland, Iran, and Nigeria, framing such actions as violations of international law and national sovereignty. The VSCN urged Nigerians committed to global peace and justice to join solidarity marches, strengthen national unity, and protect against potential imperialist interference in Nigeria. The statement emphasized dialogue, diplomacy, and respect for international law as the proper means of resolving disputes.

Delcy Rodriguez Sworn In as Interim President of Venezuela After US Capture of Nicolas Maduro and Wife, Signals Conditional Cooperation With Washington Venezuela’s former Vice President Delcy Rodriguez has been sworn in as interim president following the capture of President Nicolas Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, by United States forces. The swearing-in ceremony took place on Monday at the National Assembly in Caracas, drawing global attention amid rising diplomatic tensions and cautious signals of possible engagement with Washington, according to AFP. Rodriguez, who took the oath “in the name of all Venezuelans,” expressed sorrow over the detention of Maduro and Flores, describing them as “hostages in the United States.” While condemning the US operation, the National Assembly pledged full support for Rodriguez’s interim leadership. Lawmakers also re-elected her brother, Jorge Rodriguez, as parliamentary speaker, consolidating the family’s grip on both the executive and legislative arms of government. During the session, legislators chanted slogans linked to Maduro’s controversial 2024 re-election campaign, which was widely criticised by opposition groups and foreign governments, including the United States, as fraudulent. Senior lawmakers accused President Donald Trump of overstepping international norms, vowing to pursue all avenues to secure Maduro’s return to power. Venezuela’s Supreme Court authorised Rodriguez to assume the presidency in an acting capacity, a move later endorsed by the military. Maduro’s son, Nicolas Maduro Guerra, and the ruling United Socialist Party of Venezuela (PSUV) also threw their weight behind Rodriguez, insisting the country remains stable under her leadership. The PSUV and its allies currently control 256 of the 286 seats in parliament following elections boycotted by much of the opposition. Despite insisting that Maduro remains Venezuela’s “only legitimate president,” Rodriguez extended a conditional offer of cooperation to Washington, which has indicated willingness to work with Caracas if its demands on political reforms and oil access are met. However, Trump warned that Rodriguez could face consequences similar to or worse than Maduro’s if she failed to comply with US directives. The unfolding developments mark a dramatic turning point in Venezuela’s political crisis, deepening internal power consolidation while reshaping the country’s already strained relationship with the United States.

ADC Says Trump’s Action Against Venezuela’s Maduro Is a Warning to Illegitimate Governments, Slams Tinubu’s Silence as Embarrassing for Nigeria The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has described recent actions by the United States under President Donald Trump against Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife as a strong warning to governments that lack legitimacy, urging Nigeria to draw lessons from the development. In a statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the party said the move sends “a strong message” to Nigeria and other countries where leadership is allegedly sustained by flawed elections and repression. While reaffirming its support for national sovereignty and non-interference as enshrined in the UN Charter, the ADC argued that these principles should not be used to shield tyranny, electoral fraud, and the denial of citizens’ right to choose their leaders. Citing the 2024 Venezuelan presidential election, the party noted widespread international condemnation over alleged fraud, repression, exclusion of opposition candidates, violent suppression of protests, and the use of state institutions against citizens—developments it said have driven mass migration and regional instability. The ADC acknowledged that U.S. intervention raises concerns under international law but maintained that the public celebrations within Venezuela reflect a deep legitimacy crisis for the Maduro government. The party also criticised the Tinubu administration’s silence, calling it “deeply embarrassing” and evidence that Nigeria has lost influence and moral authority on the global stage. It concluded that sovereignty must reflect the will of the people, not merely the survival of a regime, warning that “contrived mandates” and election rigging will no longer find safe haven.

UN Chief António Guterres Warns Security Council of Escalating Venezuela Crisis After U.S. Military Operation, Cites Risks to Regional Stability and International Law United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has warned the Security Council that recent U.S. military action in Venezuela could deepen instability, destabilise the wider region, and undermine the foundations of international law. Speaking through UN political affairs chief Rosemary DiCarlo at an emergency meeting, Guterres described the situation as “grave” following the 3 January U.S. operation that reportedly led to the capture and transfer of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro to the United States. According to the UN briefing, U.S. forces carried out operations across Caracas and several northern states, with the full extent of casualties still unclear. While U.S. President Donald Trump publicly acknowledged the strike, the Venezuelan government condemned the action as a violation of the UN Charter and a threat to international peace and security. At the time of the meeting, Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, were being held in New York to face serious criminal charges. Guterres stressed that the UN Charter prohibits the use of force against the territorial integrity or political independence of any state, warning that the precedent set by the operation could erode global norms. He also placed the crisis within Venezuela’s prolonged political, social, and economic turmoil, citing disputed elections, documented human rights violations, and the mass exodus of citizens. Urging restraint, dialogue, and diplomatic engagement, the UN chief called on all parties to respect sovereignty, human rights, and the rule of law, insisting that “the power of the law must prevail” as the international community seeks a peaceful path forward for Venezuela.

Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro Pleads Not Guilty in U.S. Court, Declares “I Am Still President” Amid Drug Trafficking and Weapons Charges Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro has pleaded not guilty to multiple criminal charges during his first appearance in a New York courtroom, using the moment to reaffirm his claim to the presidency. Facing allegations of narco-terrorism conspiracy, cocaine importation, and illegal possession of weapons, Maduro rejected the accusations, insisting on his innocence and political legitimacy. According to reports, the indictment includes four major counts, marking one of the most serious criminal cases ever brought against a sitting foreign leader in the United States. Outside the courthouse, supporters and protesters gathered, turning the proceedings into a political spectacle highlighting tensions over sovereignty, accountability, and international justice. Maduro’s wife, Cilia Flores, who was apprehended alongside him, also entered a not guilty plea to similar drug trafficking and weapons charges. The case follows an announcement by U.S. Attorney General Pamela Bondi, who confirmed that both were indicted in the Southern District of New York. As the trial moves forward, the case is set to test the reach of U.S. law while deepening the global political controversy surrounding Venezuela’s embattled leadership.

Ousted Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro Appears in New York Court Amid UN Debate Over Legality of U.S. Capture Former Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, appeared in a Manhattan federal court to face long-standing U.S. drug trafficking charges following a U.S. special forces operation in Caracas. The raid, described as the largest U.S. military intervention in Latin America since Panama in 1989, allegedly involved breaching Maduro’s security to arrest him. U.S. authorities accuse Maduro of leading a vast cocaine-trafficking network linked to Mexico’s cartels, Colombian rebels, and Venezuelan gangs. Maduro denies the charges, calling them politically motivated. Despite the arrest, Maduro’s allies still control Caracas, and Venezuela’s acting president, Delcy Rodríguez, signaled cautious openness to dialogue with the U.S. The operation has sparked international controversy, with Russia, China, and Cuba condemning the U.S. action, while Western allies have urged dialogue and adherence to international law. The UN Security Council is set to debate the legality of the U.S. operation, while markets reacted with modest gains in oil prices, Venezuelan bonds, and defense stocks amid geopolitical uncertainty.

Nigerian Activist Agena Robert Warns ‘If U.S. Can Invade Venezuela, They Can Invade Nigeria,’ Criticizes Trump as Dictator Nigerian human rights activist Agena A. Robert has condemned the United States over its actions against Venezuela, labeling Washington’s foreign policy as hypocritical, imperialistic, and a threat to global sovereignty. In a statement titled “The Hypocrisy of Empire: Why the U.S. Assault on Venezuela Is a Threat to Us All,” Robert argued that U.S. claims of promoting democracy are a pretext for controlling Venezuela’s resources. He accused U.S. President Donald Trump of acting like a dictator and criticized double standards in international relations, including tolerance for elites and selective criminalization. Robert warned that developing nations, including Nigeria, are at risk of foreign intervention disguised as benevolence, citing U.S., Israeli, Chinese, Russian, and European influence under various pretexts. He called for countries in the Global South to resist domination and uphold sovereignty, stressing that Venezuela’s experience should serve as a wake-up call. The activist emphasized solidarity with Venezuela and the importance of defending self-determination against neocolonial exploitation.