US Files Torture Charges Against Maduro and Wife Flores

Source Summary

The United States has charged ousted Venezuelan president Nicolas Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores with conspiracy to commit torture, in addition to existing drug trafficking and firearms charges. Prosecutors allege that detainees, including US citizens, were subjected to waterboarding, rape, and beatings. The pair remain in US custody following a January military raid.

Why it matters

The charges represent an escalation in US legal action against Venezuelan leadership and allege systematic abuse of detainees including American citizens.