US Military Operation Captures Venezuelan President Maduro

Sun Jan 04 2026 11:34:06 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

In a significant escalation of tensions, the US has conducted military strikes in Venezuela, resulting in the capture of President Nicolás Maduro. The operation has sparked international reactions and raised questions about the future of US-Venezuela relations.

US President Donald Trump has announced the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro following military strikes across Venezuela. The operation, which targeted military installations and was carried out by elite US forces, has led to widespread demands for proof of life from the Venezuelan government, which claims civilian areas were affected. Trump has accused Maduro of drug smuggling and illegitimacy, while the Venezuelan government condemns the strikes as aggression against its sovereignty and citizens.

US Military Operation Captures Venezuelan President Maduro

In a significant escalation of tensions, the US has conducted military strikes in Venezuela, resulting in the capture of President Nicolás Maduro. The operation has sparked international reactions and raised questions about the future of US-Venezuela relations.

The US has captured Venezuela's President Nicolas Maduro after a large-scale strike on the South American country, US President Donald Trump has said. Trump reported that Maduro and his wife were flown out of the country in a military operation in conjunction with US law enforcement.

Explosions were reported across Caracas, including military bases, leading the Venezuelan government to declare a national emergency and demand proof of Maduro's survival. The strikes come after years of heightened tensions, with the US accusing Maduro of drug smuggling and Maduro accusing the US of intimidation.

What do we know about Maduro's capture?

Details remain scarce, as Trump did not elaborate on the specifics of Maduro's capture or his current location. Sources indicate Maduro was detained by US force's elite Delta unit.

What happened during the strikes?

At around 02:00 local time, loud explosions were reported in Caracas, striking military installations and possibly impacting civilian areas as well. As videos and social media reports surface, the extent of casualties or damage is still unclear.

How has Venezuela reacted?

The Venezuelan government, led by Vice-President Delcy Rodríguez, has stated they are unaware of the whereabouts of Maduro and his wife, demanding proof of life. They condemned the US action as a military aggression threatening international peace.

What has Donald Trump said?

Trump, on his Truth Social platform, confirmed the strikes, declaring the success of the operation and indicating more details would follow.

Who is Maduro and why has he been captured?

Nicolás Maduro, who rose to power following Hugo Chávez, has been controversial, facing allegations of dictatorial practices and drug trafficking connections, which the US administration has cited as justification for their actions.