On Jan. 2, the United States conducted a special military operation removing Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro extraditing him and his wife, Celia Flores to the United States on charges of narcoterrorism.

Narcoterrorism can be defined as terrorism associated with the trade of illegal drugs. Maduro and Flores were transferred to New York City to face charges where Judge Alvin Hellerstein will hear their case. On Jan. 5, Maduro and Flores were arraigned in a New York federal court where they both pleaded not guilty to the charges. 

Prior to new elections being held, the acting President of Venezuela Delcy Rodriguez has agreed to comply with the United States. Rodriguez, a former member of the Maduro regime, is working with the United States whilst the country transitions, with new elections expected to be held in the wake of Maduro’s arrest. During the transition, the United States has made an effort to increase Venezuelan oil output and efficiency, partnering with companies like Chevron and Shell to rebuild the country’s oil infrastructure. This in turn could bring down gas costs in the United States. 

Maduro’s ouster came after months of U.S. strikes on vessels allegedly transporting drugs for terrorist organizations in the Caribbean. The people of Venezuela have ultimately welcomed the change, with many taking to the streets to celebrate Maduro’s arrest. 

Ultimately, the ousting of Maduro represents a new hope for the people of Venezuela, granting them the opportunity to transition towards a form of government mirroring that of the United States.