President Donald Trump revealed the capture on Truth Social early Saturday. He stated that US forces executed a large-scale strike in Venezuela and apprehended President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores.
Additionally he mentioned that authorities flew them out of the country. This news shocked the world and escalated US-Venezuela relations.
Details of the Operation
US forces struck multiple sites in Caracas and northern Venezuela around 1:50 a.m. local time. Witnesses reported explosions, low-flying aircraft, and power outages in key areas.
The Army’s Delta Force led the capture, acting on a 2020 indictment for narco terrorism and drug trafficking. Trump approved the mission days earlier, coordinating with law enforcement. No further invasions occurred, officials confirmed.
Meanwhile a CNN team in Caracas documented the chaos. Blasts targeted military installations, but civilian areas suffered blackouts. The operation lasted under an hour, marking a swift end to the kinetic phase.
Responses from Venezuela
Vice President Delcy Rodríguez called a national emergency, stating the necessity of receiving proof of life regarding Maduro and Flores. The military promised to resist, but the regime seemed to be in disarray. There were demonstrations in the streets, with some residents in fear while others held hopes of change.
International Response
Countries demanded an urgent meeting at the United Nations. US allies, such as Russia and China, condemned the US action as aggression. But some Latin American nations welcomed the action for supposed drug rings. There was a briefing for senators by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, promising Maduro’s trial in the US.
History of US-Venezuelan Relations
Tensions escalated over the years. The US offered bounties up to $50 million for the arrest of Maduro. Trump warned about actions on trafficking related to organizations such as Tren de Aragua. This attack came after a period of pressure to dismantle the threat of narco-terrorism.
What Happens Next
Trump holds a press conference at Mar-a-Lago. Charges against Maduro have been made by the US, which may cause a change in Venezuela’s government. There may be instability, although the US prioritizes stability in the region.
