New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani sharply criticised a US military operation in Venezuela and called it an act of war. He said the move pursued regime change and violated federal and international law. He added that he personally contacted President Donald Trump to register opposition. Meanwhile, the operation followed the overnight capture of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife.
Trump Announces Temporary Control Over Venezuela
President Trump announced that the United States placed Venezuela under temporary American control after the capture. He said the transition would remain until a safe and proper handover occurred. Moreover, Trump argued that the move protected Venezuelans’ interests. He also stated that major US oil companies would enter Venezuela to rehabilitate damaged infrastructure. However, experts warned that rebuilding could take years.
Mayor Raises Legal and Humanitarian Concerns
Mamdani told reporters he spoke directly with Trump to oppose the operation. He said the action contradicted consistent application of federal and international law. Earlier, he described the military move as a blatant pursuit of regime change. Therefore, he warned of dangerous escalation in US foreign policy.
Impact on Venezuelans in New York
The mayor stressed that consequences could extend beyond Venezuela. He said tens of thousands of Venezuelans living in New York could feel direct effects. His administration, he noted, prioritised their safety and the safety of all residents. Meanwhile, city officials continued monitoring developments and prepared guidance if needed.
Details of the Overnight Operation
Trump said US forces conducted a large-scale strike that disrupted electricity in parts of Caracas. US Special Forces captured Maduro near a reported safe location. They transported Maduro and his wife to a US Navy ship offshore. Subsequently, authorities flew them to New York to face federal charges.
Legal Proceedings and Uncertain Governance
Officials said Maduro would appear in Manhattan federal court for an initial hearing. His wife also faces charges, including cocaine importation conspiracy. However, Trump did not clarify who would lead Venezuela during the interim. US forces, he acknowledged, did not control the country itself.
Reaction Inside Venezuela and the US
Venezuelan officials condemned the capture and called it a kidnapping. A court later named Vice President Delcy Rodriguez as interim president. In the United States, legal experts questioned the operation’s legality. Meanwhile, some lawmakers demanded clarity on next steps. As events unfold, uncertainty continues to surround governance, legality, and regional stability.
