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

In the early hours of January 3, 2026, U.S. military forces conducted a large-scale operation in Caracas, Venezuela, resulting in the capture of President Nicolás Maduro and First Lady Cilia Flores. The couple was apprehended at their residence and subsequently transported to the USS Iwo Jima before being flown to New York.

President Donald Trump announced the operation, stating that the U.S. would oversee Venezuela's governance until a peaceful transition could be arranged. Attorney General Pam Bondi confirmed that Maduro and Flores face charges including narco-terrorism conspiracy and cocaine importation conspiracy, stemming from a 2020 indictment.

The operation, codenamed Absolute Resolve, involved coordinated airstrikes and ground assaults by U.S. special forces, including Delta Force units. The mission was executed without U.S. fatalities, though some personnel sustained injuries.

Vice President Delcy Rodríguez, now acting as Venezuela's de facto leader, initially demanded proof of Maduro's well-being and has publicly denied his removal, asserting his continued legitimacy.

The U.S. action has elicited mixed reactions. While some Venezuelan expatriates celebrated the development, others expressed concern over the legality and potential ramifications of the intervention. Democratic lawmakers in the U.S. criticized the operation, questioning the lack of congressional approval and the potential violation of international law.

The United Nations Security Council has scheduled an emergency meeting to address the situation, as the international community closely monitors the unfolding events in Venezuela.