Venezuelan Minister of Interior and Justice, Diosdado Cabello, confirmed on Friday that Nicolás Maduro, the former president of Venezuela, received a consular visit while detained in a Brooklyn, New York penal facility. This visit occurred following his capture in Caracas on January 3rd as part of an operation ordered from Washington.
Consular Access Granted
Cabello stated that efforts are continuously underway to secure the return of Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores. He added, “Recently, there was a consular visit, and I pointed out that if we do not have an embassy or consulate there, he will not have a consular visit pending for him and our sister Cilia.”
The visit was conducted by a representative of the Venezuelan government, allowing Maduro to communicate any needs or concerns, according to Cabello. He explained that the visit was “authorized by International Law.”
Documents revealed by U.S. Judicial authorities last Thursday confirmed that both Maduro and Flores received the consular visit at the Metropolitan Detention Center (MDC) in Brooklyn. The visit was agreed upon during the initial court appearance and arraignment on January 5, 2026, as noted by prosecutor Jay Clayton in a letter to Judge Alvin K. Hellerstein.
Maduro pleaded not guilty to federal charges related to drug trafficking before a Federal District Court in New York in January.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Maduro and Flores receive their first consular visit?
The exact date of the visit was not specified, but it occurred after Maduro and Flores were transferred to a U.S. Prison in Brooklyn following their capture on January 3, 2026.
Who conducted the consular visit?
The visit was conducted by a representative of the Venezuelan government.
Why is the lack of a Venezuelan embassy in the U.S. Relevant?
Diosdado Cabello raised the issue of consular visits in relation to Venezuela’s lack of a diplomatic presence in the United States, noting that without an embassy or consulate, access to such services could be limited.
What implications might this development have for the ongoing legal proceedings and potential diplomatic efforts?
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