Rizky Amelia
Nicolas Maduro, the former President of Venezuela, has shared the first photographs of himself from the United States detention center where he is being held. The images, posted on social media platforms, come two days after the announcement of a US-Venezuela oil deal and provide a glimpse into the conditions under which Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, are being held since their abduction by US special forces in January.
The photographs, taken on June 25, show Maduro in a grey tracksuit, making peace signs with his hands. They depict the former leader, who appears to have lost considerable weight since his capture, standing in what appears to be a detention cell. The posts, accompanied by a message of resilience and gratitude, were shared on Maduro's Telegram account and X platform.
"I am sending these photos as a small gift to all my grandchildren, to the boys and girls, and to all the good people who love us," Maduro wrote in Spanish. "I want you to know that we are standing firm, with our hearts full of your love. We will remain strong, calm, and confident: God is with us. God will provide. Venezuela will rise again."
The AFP news agency reported that it attempted to contact the detention center in Brooklyn, New York, to verify the authenticity of the photos and obtain authorization for their publication, but did not receive an immediate response. The timing of the release of the images is significant, coming just two days after Maduro's successor, interim President Delcy Rodriguez, announced a "historic" oil agreement with the US, allowing American companies to operate in Venezuelan oil fields.
Maduro and his wife were abducted by US special forces during a trip to the Dominican Republic and subsequently flown to the US. They are currently being held on charges of drug trafficking and firearm possession, which they deny. The trial for the couple is scheduled to begin on June 1, 2027, according to a federal court in New York.
In the interim, Maduro has limited access to information, with no access to newspapers or the internet. However, he is allowed to speak by phone with his family and lawyers for approximately 300 minutes a month, with a maximum of 15 minutes per call, according to a source close to the former leader.
The images of Maduro from US detention have sparked a global discussion about his condition and the legal proceedings against him. His supporters have expressed concern over the fairness of the trial and the circumstances surrounding his capture, while critics have called for justice and accountability for the charges against him.
The release of the photographs also serves as a reminder of the political tensions between the US and Venezuela, which have been strained for years. The oil deal and Maduro's detention have further complicated the relationship, with Maduro's supporters viewing the move as an attempt to undermine the Venezuelan government and its sovereignty.
As Maduro's trial approaches, the world will be watching to see how the case unfolds and what its implications will be for both nations. In the meantime, Maduro's message of hope and resilience continues to resonate with his supporters, who remain hopeful that Venezuela will rise again in the face of adversity.
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