Nicolas Maduro and wife face new US charges over alleged torture

Federal prosecutors in the United States are expected to bring additional charges against former Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores. CBS News, Fox News, CNN, and BBC News report that the new charges accuse the couple of playing a role in the torture of Americans who were wrongfully held in Venezuelan prisons. [1][2][3][5]

Multiple sources familiar with the case said that additional individuals could also be charged for their involvement in the alleged torture of more than a dozen Americans detained during Maduro's presidency, CBS News reported. Fox News reported that the new charges are expected to be announced on Thursday in Manhattan federal court, where United States Attorney Jamie McDonald is scheduled to speak after a 10:30 a.m. hearing. [2][3]

Barry Pollack, an attorney representing Maduro, told CBS News that he has not been given notice that additional charges could be brought. The BBC reported that it has also contacted Maduro's legal representation for comment. [1][2]

United States forces seized Maduro and Flores from their compound in Caracas during a military operation on January 3, 2026. The couple were subsequently brought to New York, where they were indicted on drug trafficking and weapons charges, which they deny. [1][3][10]