U.S. Captures Venezuelan President Maduro in Military Operation
The United States conducted a military operation resulting in the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, with plans to oversee Venezuela until a stable transition is established.
In a significant military operation on January 3, 2026, U.S. forces captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and First Lady Cilia Flores in Caracas. The operation, codenamed Operation Absolute Resolve, involved airstrikes targeting key military installations, including Fuerte Tiuna and La Carlota Air Base.
President Donald Trump announced that the United States would oversee Venezuela until a "safe, proper, and judicious transition" occurs. He stated, "We're not afraid of boots on the ground," indicating potential further military involvement.
Attorney General Pam Bondi confirmed that Maduro and Flores face charges in the U.S. Southern District of New York, including narco-terrorism conspiracy and cocaine importation conspiracy.
The operation has drawn international attention, with Venezuelan Vice President Delcy Rodríguez denouncing the U.S. action and declaring Maduro the rightful leader. The Venezuelan high court ordered her to assume interim leadership.
The U.S. military's actions have disrupted air travel across the Caribbean, leading to hundreds of flight cancellations and affecting numerous travelers.
This intervention marks a significant escalation in U.S.-Venezuela relations, reminiscent of past U.S. military actions in the region.
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