President Trump declared that the United States will take control over Venezuela until a safe, proper and judicious transition can be established, following the capture of President Nicolas Maduro during U.S. military strikes.
During a press conference, Trump announced intentions for U.S. oil companies to repair Venezuela's broken infrastructure and generate revenue for the country. The U.S. initiated strikes on Venezuela early Saturday, resulting in Maduro's capture along with First Lady Cilia Flores.
In response to the strikes, Venezuelan officials condemned the military action, with the vice president asserting that Maduro remains the country's sole leader. Maduro and Flores were taken from Caracas aboard a U.S. helicopter and later transferred to Guantanamo Bay before being moved to a detention center in Brooklyn, New York.
U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi noted that both Maduro and Flores face serious charges including conspiracy to commit narco-terrorism and possession of weaponry. Previous denials from Maduro regarding cartel leadership indicate a potential backlash to U.S. operations framed as an attempt to combat drug trafficking.
Trump stressed the need for a group to manage Venezuela's affairs, mentioning Secretary of State Marco Rubio's discussions with the country's vice president regarding collaboration with U.S. interests.
The military strikes drew condemnation from various countries, with Russia labeling it as aggression and China expressing strong disapproval. While some Latin American nations criticized the U.S., others, including the UK and EU leaders, called for a peaceful transition of power.
With Maduro's capture concluded as part of an extended campaign against his administration, the U.S.'s strategy and potential outcomes for Venezuelan governance are widely debated among international observers.
