Caracas — Thousands of Venezuelans took to the streets of the capital, Caracas, on Tuesday to demand the immediate release of President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, who were reportedly seized by US forces in a military operation about a month ago.
Supporters of Maduro, many waving Venezuelan flags and dressed in the red colors of the ruling Chavista movement, marched through the city chanting slogans such as “Venezuela needs Nicolás!” and “Bring them back.”
The demonstration marked exactly one month since the dramatic operation in which Maduro and Flores were reportedly taken into custody by US special forces and transferred abroad to face trial on drug trafficking charges in New York.
One marcher, Nicolasito Maduro Guerra, a member of Venezuela’s National Assembly and son of the detained president, addressed the crowd, condemning the American action as an attack on Venezuelan sovereignty and asserting that “the people are rising against imperialism.”
Wider Context and Domestic Response
The protest reflected deep anger among supporters of the former leader, who view the US intervention as a blatant violation of international law and an attempt to undermine Venezuela’s political independence. Demonstrators carried images of Maduro and Flores and accused the US of “kidnapping” their leaders.
Meanwhile, Venezuela’s acting president, Delcy Rodríguez, has been trying to maintain stability while navigating pressure both from the US and from loyalists to Maduro. Rodriguez has released hundreds of political prisoners in recent weeks and pushed for reforms as part of efforts to reduce tensions.
Protests demanding Maduro’s release have also occurred in other countries, including anti-war demonstrations in several US cities after the military operation.
Human Cost of the US Operation
The fallout from the US military operation has been significant. Independent and international reports indicate that dozens of people were killed during the intervention, including civilians and security personnel, with estimates varying widely. Some reports mention at least 40 deaths, while other sources suggest the toll could be up to 75 or more.
International Reactions
The seizure of Maduro has drawn international criticism. Governments such as Russia have called for his release, condemning the US action as a violation of international law.
