U.S. Military Captures Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro in Covert Operation

In the early hours of January 3, 2026, U.S. military forces executed Operation "Absolute Resolve," resulting in the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and First Lady Cilia Flores. The mission, authorized by President Donald Trump, involved over 150 aircraft, including F-35s, F/A-18s, E/A-18s, F-22s, B-1 bombers, unmanned aircraft, and E-2 Hawkeyes, launching from 20 different bases.

General Dan Caine, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, detailed the operation, emphasizing the extensive planning and coordination among the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Space Force, and intelligence agencies. He noted that the extraction force included law enforcement personnel and that helicopters flew at low altitudes to evade detection.

The helicopters arrived at Maduro's compound at 1:01 a.m. Eastern Time, encountering resistance and responding with "overwhelming force." Despite one helicopter being hit, it remained operational. Maduro and Flores were taken into custody without loss of life among U.S. forces.

Following the extraction, the helicopters were escorted by fighter aircraft and drones, ensuring safe passage over water by 3:39 a.m. Eastern Time. The detainees were then transported to the USS Iwo Jima.

President Trump announced that the United States would temporarily oversee Venezuela's governance, aiming to stabilize the nation and address drug trafficking concerns. He indicated that U.S. oil companies would assist in rebuilding and managing Venezuela's oil infrastructure.

The operation has drawn international criticism. Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva described the intervention as "an unacceptable line," while Mexico warned it could threaten regional stability. China and France also condemned the use of force, emphasizing the importance of respecting international law and sovereignty.

Venezuelan Vice President Delcy Rodríguez reported civilian casualties and called for Maduro's release, denouncing the U.S. action as an imperialist attack. The United Nations Security Council has scheduled an emergency meeting to address the situation.