Trump Secures Major Victory: Maduro Captured in Bold Operation
President Donald Trump announced early Saturday that U.S. military forces conducted a large-scale strike in Venezuela, resulting in the capture of President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores. The couple has been flown out of the country and is expected to face federal charges in the United States.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump stated: “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.”
The operation followed months of escalating tensions, including U.S. sanctions, a naval presence in the region, and strikes on vessels allegedly involved in drug trafficking. Maduro has been indicted in the U.S. since 2020 on charges including narco-terrorism conspiracy and cocaine importation.
U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi confirmed that Maduro and Flores will face trial in the Southern District of New York, describing the charges as involving narco-terrorism, drug importation, and related offenses.
Explosions were reported in Caracas and surrounding areas overnight, with smoke visible near military installations such as Fuerte Tiuna and La Carlota airbase. Venezuelan Vice President Delcy Rodríguez declared a national emergency, condemning the action as military aggression and demanding proof of life for Maduro and his wife.
The operation, reportedly involving elite U.S. special forces, marks a significant escalation in U.S. efforts to address allegations against the Venezuelan government. Details on casualties and the full scope of the strikes remain limited.
International reactions have been mixed, with some regional leaders expressing concern over sovereignty implications, while others in the Venezuelan opposition and exile community have welcomed the development as a potential turning point.
The situation in Venezuela remains fluid, with authorities monitoring for further developments. Trump is scheduled to address the nation later today.
