‘Deep concern’: India reacts after US captures Venezuela’s Maduro

In a statement, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said it was closely monitoring the evolving situation.

“Recent developments in Venezuela are a matter of deep concern. We are closely monitoring the evolving situation,” the MEA said.

India reaffirmed its support for the well-being and safety of the Venezuelan people and urged all parties to resolve differences peacefully.

“India reaffirms its support to the well-being and safety of the people of Venezuela. We call upon all concerned to address issues peacefully through dialogue, ensuring peace and stability in the region,” the statement said.

The MEA added that the Indian Embassy in Caracas is in touch with members of the Indian community and will continue to provide all possible assistance.

“The Embassy of India in Caracas is in contact with members of the Indian community and will continue to provide all possible assistance,” it said.

The Indian government also issued an advisory to its citizens to avoid non-essential travels to the country.

"All Indians who are in Venezuela for any reason are advised to exercise extreme caution, restrict their movements, and remain in contact with Embassy of India in Caracas through their email id: [email protected] or the emergency phone number +58-412-9584288 (also for WhatsApp calls)," the advisory said.

Meanwhile, a video circulating on social media appears to show Maduro being escorted by officers of the US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) inside the agency’s headquarters in lower Manhattan, New York, on Saturday. The video was shared by the US Rapid Response official account on X.

According to media reports, Maduro and Flores were captured during an early-morning operation carried out by US special forces in Caracas on Saturday local time. The couple was subsequently flown to the United States, arriving at a military base later that evening before being transferred to New York City.

US media reports said the 63-year-old Venezuelan leader is expected to be moved from the DEA facility to the Metropolitan Detention Center (MDC) in Brooklyn, a federal jail that previously held rapper Sean “Diddy” Combs during his trial last year.

Maduro and Flores have reportedly been charged with narco-terrorism, alleged involvement in trafficking large quantities of cocaine into the United States, and possession of illegal weapons.

The developments have prompted strong international reactions, with Venezuela seeking urgent diplomatic consultations and demanding proof of the president’s safety, as global leaders closely monitor the rapidly unfolding situation.