Video: Nicolás Maduro Perp-Walked Through NYC Under DEA Escort After U.S. Capture

Video posted by a Fox News reporter shows Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro being escorted through New York City by three DEA agents in the first clear footage released since U.S. officials say his arrest was ordered by President Donald Trump.

Footage Details

The short clip, shared by reporter Paul Mauro, shows Maduro led arm-in-arm by two agents while a third walks directly behind him. He wore a grey winter cap, a black sweater and dark trousers, paired with white socks and black sandals. Maduro held a bottle of water in front of his stomach; it was not immediately apparent whether he was handcuffed.

As he passed cameras and reporters, Maduro said, "Good night. Happy New Year." Shutter clicks and camera flashes are audible in the background. Earlier in the evening, the aircraft that transported him to New York — where he faces federal charges — was filmed by outlets including Fox News and CNN, though darkness obscured his and his wife's disembarkation.

Charges And Indictment

Federal prosecutors have charged Maduro with narco-terrorism conspiracy, weapons offenses and cocaine-importation conspiracy. The indictment describes him as an "illegitimate ruler" and alleges he shipped "thousands of tons of cocaine" to the United States. Those accusations are from the indictment and have yet to be proven in court.

U.S. Officials' Statements

President Trump announced Maduro's arrest in the early hours of Saturday and characterized the action as part of a U.S. operation. Later at Mar-a-Lago, Trump said the United States would "run" Venezuela for the time being and vowed to "get the oil flowing the way it should be," saying the U.S. had "built that whole industry there." These comments were reported by the White House and press attendees.

On television, CBS host Tony Dokoupil asked Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth what "running" Venezuela would entail. Hegseth replied that the administration would "set the terms," saying the aim is to stop drug trafficking, recover oil revenue, and prevent foreign influence in the hemisphere. He described the decision as "brave" and said it allows the United States to "control" what comes next.

What Comes Next

The case now moves into the U.S. legal system: extradition, arraignment and the opportunity for Maduro to respond to the charges in federal court. Prosecutors' allegations remain subject to evidence presented at trial, and any actions concerning Venezuela's governance would involve complex diplomatic and legal considerations.

Note: This story reports actions and statements attributed to U.S. officials and prosecutors. Allegations in the indictment are accusations and have not been proven in court.