From U.S. Prison, Maduro Breaks Silence, Thanks Supporters in First Message Since Arrest

Ousted Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro has expressed gratitude to his supporters in his first known message since his dramatic arrest by United States forces earlier this year.

In a statement shared on his verified X account on Saturday, Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, said they remain strong despite their detention in a U.S. federal facility.

“We are well, steadfast, serene and in constant prayer,” the message read, although it remains unclear who posted it on their behalf.

The couple has been held for nearly three months at the Metropolitan Detention Center following their capture in a night time operation by American commandos in Caracas in January. Reports indicate they have had no direct access to the internet or newspapers since their detention.

In the message, Maduro thanked supporters for their continued solidarity.

“We have received your communications, your messages, your emails, your letters and your prayers. Every word of love, every gesture of affection, every expression of support strengthens us spiritually,” the statement added.

Sources familiar with the situation revealed that the former leader spends time reading the Bible and is still addressed as “president” by some fellow detainees. He is reportedly limited to brief phone calls with family members and legal representatives.

Maduro’s son, Nicolás Maduro Guerra, has also publicly stated that his father remains calm and physically active while in custody.

The former president, who has described himself as a “prisoner of war,” has not spoken publicly since his arraignment in New York on January 5, where he pleaded not guilty to multiple charges, including narco terrorism conspiracy and illegal weapons offences.

His removal from power followed a U.S. led operation that effectively ended his rule, which began in 2013. Since then, Delcy Rodríguez has assumed leadership, overseeing sweeping reforms and engaging in renewed diplomatic efforts with Washington.

Recent developments indicate a gradual thaw in relations between both countries, with the United States signalling a willingness to restore diplomatic ties with Venezuela.

Despite his detention, Maduro reaffirmed his connection to supporters, praising their unity and resilience during what he described as a difficult period for the country.