WASHINGTON D.C January 3, 2026 – In a dramatic escalation of tensions, U.S. President Donald Trump announced early Saturday that American forces conducted a “large-scale strike” against Venezuela, resulting in the capture of President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores. The couple has been flown out of the country, Trump stated, marking a stunning end to Maduro’s long-standing rule.
“The United States of America has successfully carried out a large scale strike against Venezuela and its leader, President Nicolas Maduro, who has been, along with his wife, captured and flown out of the Country,” Trump posted on Truth Social. “This operation was done in conjunction with U.S. Law Enforcement. Details to follow.”
Trump added that a news conference would be held at 11 a.m. from his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida to provide further information.
Reports of explosions rocked Caracas and surrounding areas overnight, with witnesses describing low-flying aircraft, blackouts, and blasts near military and civilian sites. Venezuelan officials confirmed casualties among civilians and military personnel but provided no specific figures.
The operation reportedly involved elite U.S. Army Delta Force units, according to U.S. officials cited by multiple outlets. It caps months of intensifying U.S. pressure on Maduro, including sanctions, a naval buildup in the Caribbean, strikes on over 30 alleged drug-smuggling vessels, and a recent CIA drone attack on a Venezuelan port facility.
Venezuela’s government declared a national emergency, with Vice President Delcy Rodríguez stating on state television that authorities were unaware of Maduro’s whereabouts and demanding “immediate proof of life.” Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino López vowed resistance to any foreign troops, announcing a massive military deployment.
International reactions poured in swiftly:
– Allies Russia, Cuba, and Iran condemned the strikes as violations of sovereignty, with Iran urging UN Security Council intervention.
– Neighboring Colombia expressed “deep concern.”
– Secretary of State Marco Rubio indicated no further U.S. action is anticipated now that Maduro is in custody, according to Republican Sen. Mike Lee.
Maduro, who has led Venezuela since 2013, faces U.S. indictments on narco-terrorism charges. The Trump administration has accused his regime of facilitating drug trafficking and rigging elections, allegations Maduro denies.
The capture raises questions about Venezuela’s future governance, potential power vacuums, and the legality of the unilateral U.S. action under international law. Analysts compare it to historical U.S. interventions, such as the 1989 operation against Panama’s Manuel Noriega.
This is a developing story. More details expected from President Trump’s upcoming press conference.
About The Author
