US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has said Nicolás Maduro will face trial in the United States. The statement followed the Venezuelan president’s capture by US forces. Rubio said no further action is expected inside Venezuela.
Republican Senator Mike Lee confirmed Maduro’s arrest after speaking with Rubio. He said Maduro will face criminal charges under US law. Lee added that the operation’s goal was limited to enforcing the arrest warrant.
According to Lee, US strikes were carried out only to protect those executing the mission. He said the actions were defensive in nature. No broader military campaign is planned, he added.
Earlier, Lee raised constitutional concerns about the operation. In a post on X, he questioned whether the action required congressional approval. He asked if a declaration of war or authorisation was necessary.
Read more: Maduro captured: Trump announces major Venezuela operation
Maduro’s capture marks a major escalation in US-Venezuela relations. US officials have accused him of corruption and drug trafficking. Washington has not announced additional political or military steps.