Venezuela's Maduro: Trump's drug rhetoric raises questions

U.S. forces captured Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro and brought him to the United States, where he pleaded not guilty; observers say President Trump's past statements and recent pardons have complicated assertions that the operation was principally about drug trafficking.

U.S. forces seized Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and transferred him to the United States, where he has pleaded not guilty to federal drug charges. The operation and the administration's stated rationale — including references to drug trafficking — are being examined in light of recent presidential pardons and prior public remarks by President Trump. Some regional leaders and international bodies have expressed concern about U.S. actions in Venezuela and about clarity on what comes next. Congressional briefings and legal and parliamentary steps are underway as officials and lawmakers seek more details. Key facts: - U.S. forces captured Nicolás Maduro and brought him to the United States, and he has pleaded not guilty in federal court. - The administration has framed aspects of the operation in terms of alleged drug-trafficking links, while critics point to other possible motives such as control over Venezuelan resources. - President Trump recently issued a high-profile pardon for a former Central American leader convicted in a U.S. court, a fact observers cite when assessing the administration's consistency on drug policy. - Congress has been briefed and a classified Senate briefing and a war powers vote are scheduled as lawmakers review the operation and any further military steps. Summary: The capture of Nicolás Maduro has prompted scrutiny of the U.S. government's stated reasons and its diplomatic and legal posture toward Venezuela. Congressional briefings and a forthcoming war powers vote are the immediate procedural steps listed as officials and legislators seek additional information about the operation and plans going forward.