Cyprus Times

Reuters: Is Maduro’s Arrest by the US Legal?

Published January 4, 2026, 07:12
Reuters: Is Maduro’s Arrest by the US Legal?

The arrest of Nicolás Maduro by the US and the potential transfer for trial has raised significant legal questions regarding the legitimacy of the operation, both under US and international law. According to Reuters, while the US President has power as commander-in-chief, only Congress has the authority to declare war. At the international level, the use of force is permitted only with the approval of the UN Security Council or in cases of self-defense. Legal experts point out that drug trafficking does not justify military intervention. Although there are precedents of US arrests in foreign countries, this particular case is highly controversial. Even if deemed illegal, US accountability is difficult due to the lack of effective international mechanisms.