First Image of Nicolas Maduro Surfaces After Alleged Arrest

CARACAS: A photo purportedly showing Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro after his arrest has surfaced on social media, following reports that the United States detained him after a military operation. Former U.S. President Donald Trump publicly praised the operation, while the notion of a sitting president being treated like a criminal has drawn international attention.

The viral image, widely shared online, shows Maduro wearing a black jacket with his hands tied behind his back, accompanied by U.S. military personnel. He appears to be disembarking from a helicopter, suggesting it may have been taken after his alleged arrival in the United States. The photo was retweeted by ANI editor Smita Prakash, but neither U.S. nor Venezuelan authorities have officially confirmed its authenticity.

Read more: Trump Claims U.S. Forces Capture Venezuela’s President Maduro

Tensions between the U.S. and Venezuela have escalated over time, with Trump previously accusing Maduro of drug trafficking. The U.S. had reportedly deployed an aircraft carrier in the Caribbean as a show of force. On January 3, the U.S. allegedly launched an operation in Venezuela, resulting in Maduro’s arrest, with reports also indicating that his wife was taken into custody.

No official confirmation from either country has been provided regarding Maduro’s arrest or the authenticity of the image.