ST JOHN’S, Antigua – The Venezuelan government has initiated an international pressure campaign seeking the repatriation of President Nicholas Maduro and First Lady Cilia Flores, who remain in United States custody following their controversial detention during a military intervention on January 3rd. The diplomatic effort, branded with the hashtag #BringThemBack, was formally launched at an emotionally charged gathering hosted by Venezuela’s embassy in Antigua.
Ambassador Carmen Velasquez characterized the U.S. military action as a catastrophic event in Venezuela’s historical narrative, addressing an audience that included diplomatic representatives from Cuba and China, alongside local supporters. Both Maduro and Flores have entered not guilty pleas against charges related to narcotics and weapons trafficking, with their next court appearance scheduled for March 17 in a New York federal court.
President Maduro maintains that his capture constituted an unlawful kidnapping, while U.S. leadership has indicated intentions to maintain administrative control over Venezuela for the foreseeable future. Ambassador Velasquez, who was present in Caracas during the military operation, provided a firsthand account of hearing explosions and helicopter activity initially mistaken for celebratory fireworks, followed by observations of drone-launched rocket attacks.
The event evolved into a vigil with attendees participating in candlelight ceremonies led by Pastor James Warner of the All Saints Fellowship of Believers, who offered prayers for national peace and the safe return of Venezuela’s leadership. Cuban Ambassador Sergio Martinez applauded the gathering as a tribute to those who perished defending Venezuelan sovereignty, condemning the American intervention as a brutal assault that would not be forgotten historically.
The Venezuelan embassy has established a condolence registry for public signatures to demonstrate global solidarity with the Venezuelan populace amidst ongoing political tensions.