'Violation of international law': How New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani reacted to Maduro's capture

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani on Saturday condemned the U.S. government for its military operation in Venezuela and the capture of President Nicolás Maduro and his wife.

Mamdani called the U.S. action an "act of war" and a "violation of international law," warning that it could affect tens of thousands of Venezuelans living in New York 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. Unilaterally attacking a sovereign nation is an act of war and a violation of both federal and international law," he wrote on X.

"This blatant pursuit of regime change doesn't just affect those abroad—it directly impacts New Yorkers, including tens of thousands of Venezuelans who call this city home. My focus is on their safety and the safety of every New Yorker. My administration will continue to monitor the situation and issue relevant guidance," he added.

Later, speaking to reporters, Mamdani revealed that he had spoken directly with President Donald Trump to express his opposition to the capture of Maduro.

Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, have been indicted in the Southern District of New York and are being brought to the city to face charges against them.

The Venezuelan leader has been charged with narco-terrorism conspiracy, cocaine importation conspiracy, possession of machine guns and destructive devices and conspiracy to possess machine guns and destructive devices against the US.

The development comes just two days after Mamdani was sworn in as New York City Mayor.