Particle.news
Download on the App Store

U.S. Says Maduro, Cilia Flores Hurt Fleeing Raid as They Face New York Charges

Defense counsel sought court-ordered medical imaging following Flores's unsteady appearance.

Overview

  • U.S. officials told lawmakers the pair hit a low steel door while trying to hide during the Caracas seizure, causing head injuries.
  • Delta Force operators captured the couple, gave first aid, and flew them to New York, where both pleaded not guilty to narcotics-related charges.
  • Reporters in court observed Flores staggering with head bandages and Maduro struggling at times to sit and stand.
  • Flores's attorney said she may have a rib fracture or severe bruising and asked for an X-ray and full evaluation, while officials described her head wound as minor.
  • Administration officials said U.S. operators were wounded in a firefight with a nearby Cuban rapid-reaction force but are expected to recover, and senior leaders briefed top legislators for more than two hours.