Maduro posts first photos from US custody, addresses grandchildren

August 30, 2026 at 09:55 PM2 min

This digest was compiled by AI from multiple sources — links to the originals are below.

Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, detained in the United States since January 3, posted two photos from custody on August 30. In the post, he addressed his grandchildren and supporters, saying he and his wife Cilia Flores remain strong. The photos show Maduro in a gray tracksuit, smiling and making a victory sign.

Key Facts

Maduro posted the photos on his X account on August 30, 2026, with the caption 'A little gift of love and hope.'
The photos show Maduro in a gray tracksuit and white sneakers, smiling and making a victory sign in one image.
Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores were captured by US forces on January 3 and appeared in federal court in New York on January 5.
Maduro faces charges including drug trafficking, cocaine smuggling, and weapons offenses against the US.
Delsy Rodríguez, formerly executive vice president, is serving as acting president of Venezuela.

The Photos

Maduro posted two photos on his X account on August 30, 2026, with the caption 'A little gift of love and hope.' In the first photo, he stands against a wall wearing a gray tracksuit and white sneakers, smiling at the camera. In the second photo, he holds his glasses in his hand, smiles, and makes a victory sign. The post was shared from Maduro's own account, according to the sources.

The Message

Maduro addressed his grandchildren, children, and supporters, saying, 'I want you to know that we are strong, our hearts are filled with your love.' He thanked supporters for their prayers, actions, solidarity, and support, and said he and his wife Cilia Flores remain strong and hopeful. Maduro ended the message with, 'We will remain strong, calm, and confident. God is with us. God will provide. Venezuela will be reborn.'

The Detention

US forces attacked several sites in Venezuela on January 3 and captured Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores. They appeared before the federal court for the Southern District of New York on January 5. Maduro and his wife pleaded not guilty to charges including drug trafficking, cocaine smuggling, and weapons offenses. Delsy Rodríguez, who served as executive vice president under Maduro, is acting as president of Venezuela.