US Captures Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro in Military Operation

In a significant escalation of tensions, the United States conducted a military operation early Saturday, capturing Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores. The couple was taken from their residence within a military base and transported to the U.S., where they are expected to face criminal charges.

U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi announced that Maduro has been indicted in the Southern District of New York on charges including narco-terrorism conspiracy, cocaine importation conspiracy, and possession of machine guns and destructive devices.

President Donald Trump stated that the U.S. would temporarily govern Venezuela until a transition of power occurs. He emphasized the necessity of the intervention to ensure a safe and stable political transition.

The operation has drawn international condemnation. Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva described the action as "an unacceptable line," while Mexico warned that it threatened regional stability. China and France also criticized the U.S. for violating international law.

The military raid, which lasted less than 30 minutes, resulted in fatalities among Venezuelan civilians and military personnel. The U.S. operation follows months of escalating interventions, including prior strikes on drug networks.

The situation in Venezuela remains tense as the international community reacts to the U.S. intervention and the removal of Maduro from power.