Zelensky’s Cryptic Remark on Putin After Maduro’s Capture

Just hours after US President Donald Trump announced the capture of Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky made a pointed comment that appeared to reference Russian President Vladimir Putin. Speaking at a press conference, Zelensky said, “If this can be done to dictators, like that, then the United States of America know what they should do next.”

The remark was widely interpreted as an indirect callout to Putin.

Russia’s Response

The Russian Foreign Ministry quickly condemned the US action, demanding the release of Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores. In a statement on X, the ministry described them as “legitimately elected leaders” and urged Washington to resolve disputes with Venezuela through dialogue rather than force.

Details of the Operation

Maduro and his wife were captured in Caracas in a joint operation involving US law enforcement and intelligence agencies. Trump later confirmed that they had been indicted in New York on charges of drug trafficking and narco‑terrorism conspiracies. A video released by US authorities showed Maduro in handcuffs during a “perp walk.”

Maduro is set to be transferred to the Metropolitan Detention Center (MDC) in New York, a facility notorious for poor conditions, understaffing, and inmate violence. Meanwhile, Venezuela’s opposition celebrated the capture.

Political Fallout

Trump expressed skepticism about opposition leader Maria Corina Machado, suggesting he would instead work with Maduro loyalist Delcy Rodriguez. Machado had called for Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia to be installed as president, a move supported by most Western governments, who recognize Gonzalez as the legitimate winner of Venezuela’s disputed 2024 election.