Mamdani characterized the military operation as “an act of war” and warned that it could have broader implications beyond Venezuela, particularly for the city’s Venezuelan community. “My focus is their safety and the safety of every New Yorker,” he said, noting that his administration will continue to monitor the situation and provide guidance as needed.
Earlier, in a statement posted on social media, Mamdani said he had been briefed on plans to detain Maduro and Flores in federal custody in New York City. He cautioned that the operation could represent a dangerous escalation in US foreign policy and highlighted potential impacts on Venezuelan residents in the city.
I was briefed this morning on the U.S. military capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, as well as their planned imprisonment in federal custody here in New York City.
— Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani (@NYCMayor) January 3, 2026
Unilaterally attacking a sovereign nation is an act of war and a violation of federal and…
President Trump announced that US forces had carried out a “large-scale strike” in Venezuela, capturing Maduro and Flores and transporting them to the United States to face federal charges.
Mayor Mamdani’s remarks underline the concerns of city officials about international actions and their local implications, particularly for communities with strong ties to affected nations.