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Trump Shares Photo Allegedly Depicting Maduro in US Custody

Published January 3, 2026, 17:16

Former US President Donald Trump posted a photo on his Truth Social platform purportedly showing Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro in US custody. According to Trump's post, the photo depicts Maduro on the American warship USS Iwo Jima, wearing handcuffs and a blindfold. This publication comes at a time of significant political and economic challenges in Venezuela, as well as strained relations between the country and the United States. During his presidency, Trump exerted strong pressure on Maduro, supporting the recognition of Juan Guaidó as the legitimate president of Venezuela. It is unclear how Trump obtained the photo, nor whether it is authentic or has been altered. The post has sparked strong reactions on social media and in the international press, with many expressing doubts about its validity. The US government has not officially commented on Trump's posting of the photo. However, the move is seen by many as an attempt to rekindle tensions with Venezuela and undermine the current Biden administration.