Crowds were seen in Times Square holding signs that read “Release Maduro” and images of Maduro alongside the phrase “Stand with the Bolivian Revolution.

Crowds were seen in Times Square holding signs that read “Release Maduro” and images of Maduro alongside the phrase “Stand with the Bolivian Revolution.

Communists and leftist activists gathered in New York City to recruit others and demand the release of Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro following his capture by the US military and transfer to the United States to face narco-terrorism charges.

Crowds were seen in Times Square holding signs that read “Release Maduro” and images of Maduro alongside the phrase “Stand with the Bolivian Revolution.” One protester who addressed the crowd accused the United States of having “kidnapped” Maduro and claimed the conflict was motivated by US efforts to gain control of Venezuela’s oil reserves.

A booth at the gathering was seen distributing communist literature and recruiting supporters opposed to US imperialism.” Communist flags were also flown during the demonstration.

New York City socialist Mayor Zohran Mamdani issued a statement following news of Maduro’s capture, criticizing the US action. “Unilaterally attacking a sovereign nation is an act of war and a violation of federal and international law,” he said. “This blatant pursuit of regime change doesn't just affect those abroad, it directly impacts New Yorkers, including tens of thousands of Venezuelans who call this city home. My focus is their safety and the safety of every New Yorker, and my administration will continue to monitor the situation and issue relevant guidance."

At the same time, Venezuelans were also present at the Times Square gathering expressing support for the Trump administration’s actions. Some Venezuelans were seen confronting left-wing protesters advocating for Maduro’s release and thanking President Donald Trump for his role in the operation.

Celebrations have also been reported by Venezuelans around the world following Maduro’s removal.

Maduro has been accused by the United States of leading the Cartel of the Suns, a drug trafficking organization alleged to have funneled large quantities of narcotics into the United States. He has been in power since 2013 after succeeding longtime leader Hugo Chavez, and his most recent election has been widely disputed, with multiple countries refusing to recognize him as the legitimate president.

According to the United Nations refugee agency, roughly 8 million people have fled Venezuela since 2017 amid political instability and economic collapse.