Statement of the U.S. Secretary of State on Nicolas Maduro
On January 3, 2026, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio made a statement regarding the status of Nicolas Maduro, who was recently captured by U.S. forces and brought to the United States for prosecution. In his speech, Rubio emphasized that Maduro is not the legitimate president of Venezuela and stated that he is the head of the drug terrorist organization 'Cartel de Los Soles'.
Political Situation in Venezuela
Nicolas Maduro has been serving as president since March 5, 2013, when he won the general elections on April 14, 2013, defeating his opponent Henrique Capriles. However, recent events have changed his status, as Maduro was captured along with his wife Cilia Flores in a joint operation with American law enforcement. Donald Trump confirmed this information, stating that the operation was conducted with the aim of prosecuting Maduro for his actions.
Marco Rubio highlighted that Maduro's regime is not the legitimate government of Venezuela, indicating serious changes in the political situation in the country. Rubio's statement and Trump's confirmation indicate active U.S. efforts to combat the activities of the 'Cartel de Los Soles', which controls cocaine trafficking. These events could significantly impact the further development of the situation in Venezuela and the region as a whole.
The capture of Nicolas Maduro underscores the growing role of the United States in the fight against drug trafficking and in supporting democratic processes in Latin America. It is important to note that these events could lead to new international sanctions against Venezuela and affect relations between the U.S. and other countries in the region that may support or oppose Maduro's regime. The next steps of the U.S. in this situation could significantly alter the political landscape of Venezuela and its relations with neighboring nations.