Venezuela Demands US Release Maduro From Custody After Arrest
Venezuela is demanding the immediate release of President Nicolás Maduro after reports he is being held in U.S. custody, escalating a long-running standoff between Caracas and Washington.
According to Al Jazeera’s breaking news report on Feb. 23, 2026, Venezuelan officials characterized Maduro’s detention as unlawful and politically motivated, calling for his immediate return.
The government said the move undermines ongoing domestic reconciliation and amnesty efforts, which officials have promoted as part of broader attempts to stabilize the country amid economic and political strain.
Details about how Maduro entered U.S. custody were not fully outlined in the initial report, and the U.S. Justice Department has not yet released a comprehensive public statement explaining the legal basis for the detention.
A Venezuelan official described the action as “a violation of international norms,” according to Al Jazeera.
The development represents one of the most serious escalations between the two countries in recent years. The United States has previously imposed sanctions and pursued legal action related to alleged corruption and narcotics trafficking involving senior Venezuelan officials.
If Maduro remains in U.S. custody, the move could trigger diplomatic retaliation, economic countermeasures, or legal challenges at the international level.
Further clarification is expected from U.S. authorities as the situation develops.
The standoff now places renewed global attention on relations between Washington and Caracas.
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