A dramatic military action unfolded overnight in Venezuela, culminating in the capture of President Nicolás Maduro and his wife amidst large-scale explosions near Caracas. U.S. authorities confirmed the operation early Saturday, revealing that the couple had been indicted in New York on drug-trafficking charges.
According to U.S. President Donald Trump, the military operation was a coordinated effort involving U.S. law enforcement. In a post on Truth Social, Trump announced, “The United States of America has successfully carried out a large-scale strike against Venezuela and its leader, President Nicolás Maduro, who has been, along with his wife, captured and flown out of the Country.” However, details surrounding the assault remain sparse.
U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi disclosed on social media that Maduro and his wife face multiple serious charges in the Southern District of New York, including conspiracy to commit narco-terrorism, cocaine importation conspiracy, and possession of weapons. “They will soon face the full wrath of American justice on American soil in American courts,” Bondi stated.
Reports indicate that the elite U.S. Army Delta Force unit played a pivotal role in the capture. Trump later informed “Fox and Friends Weekend” that although U.S. forces encountered injuries during the operation, there were no fatalities. He explained that a delay in launching the attack was due to weather conditions. Following their capture, Maduro and his wife were reportedly taken to the USS Iwo Jima before heading to New York to face charges.
While the Pentagon has not commented on the operation, both Trump and Bondi have shared updates via social media. Trump reaffirmed his commitment to confronting Maduro, a leader he has long accused of heading a “narco-state.” Meanwhile, questions regarding the operation’s constitutionality lingered. Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) noted that Secretary of State Marco Rubio had assured him that the military action fell within presidential authority, aimed at protecting U.S. personnel.
Venezuelan Vice President Delcy Rodríguez responded to the operation, demanding proof of Maduro and his wife’s well-being on state television. Maduro’s official social media presence announced that attacks occurred in several Venezuelan states, asserting a declaration of national emergency and mobilizing defense forces to challenge U.S. objectives in Venezuela.
Trump previously threatened action against Maduro, suggesting on December 23 that it would be “smart” for him to relinquish power. His administration has encouraged international scrutiny of Maduro’s electoral tactics, alleging manipulation to secure his position. Colombian President Gustavo Petro joined the discourse, advocating for an emergency meeting of the Organization of American States and the United Nations in light of the escalating situation.
As the dust settles from this unprecedented event, the full implications remain to be seen, particularly regarding U.S.-Venezuela relations and the impact on the Venezuelan populace. Maduro’s administration has consistently accused Washington of aiming to seize Venezuela’s vast oil reserves, the largest in the world.
As of now, the Venezuelan government has not provided further details, while reporters and analysts await developments in this breaking news story.
Original Source: https://www.cnbc.com/2026/01/03/trump-us-operation-captured-venezuela-president-nicolas-maduro.html
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Publish Date: 2026-01-03 20:17:00
