In a dramatic escalation of legal pressure, the United States has formally charged Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, with a series of grave crimes. US Attorney General Pamela Bondi announced on Friday, January 3, 2026, that the pair have been indicted in the Southern District of New York.
Serious Charges Laid Against Venezuelan Leadership
The indictments accuse the Venezuelan first couple of serious drug- and weapons-related crimes directed against the United States. Attorney General Bondi stated that this action marks a significant step in holding the Venezuelan leadership accountable for alleged narco-terrorism activities.
According to the detailed charges, Nicolas Maduro faces multiple counts. These include Narco-Terrorism Conspiracy, Cocaine Importation Conspiracy, Possession of Machineguns and Destructive Devices, and Conspiracy to Possess Machineguns and Destructive Devices against the United States.
"Full Wrath of American Justice" Awaits, Says US AG
Bondi declared that both Maduro and Flores would be prosecuted in US courts. This follows what she described as a successful military operation that led to their capture. "They will soon face the full wrath of American justice on American soil in American courts," she asserted in a strong statement.
The announcement came amidst scenes of celebration in parts of Venezuela. Reports and images, such as those from Santiago, Chile, showed Venezuelans reacting to the news of Maduro's capture and extradition, which was announced earlier by former US President Donald Trump.
Credit Given to Trump and US Military
In her remarks, Attorney General Bondi credited former President Donald Trump for his role in pushing for accountability. She also praised the US military for executing the operation that led to the capture of the indicted individuals.
"On behalf of the entire U.S. DOJ, I would like to thank President Trump for having the courage to demand accountability on behalf of the American People," Bondi said. She added, "A huge thank you to our brave military who conducted the incredible and highly successful mission to capture these two alleged international narco traffickers."
The indictments in the Southern District of New York represent one of the most direct legal confrontations between the US and the sitting leadership of Venezuela, setting the stage for a high-profile international trial.
