US President Donald Trump hailed the military operation capturing Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro as "tactically brilliant" on January 6, 2026, revealing enemy casualties including Cuban soldiers while confirming no American losses in the Caracas raid. Maduro remains in a New York jail after pleading not guilty to drug charges, as Trump eyes oil investments and warns of further strikes if uncooperative.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth detailed the Saturday night assault involving 200 Delta Force commandos, fighter jets neutralizing defenses, and helicopters under fire at Maduro's residence. Trump, speaking at a GOP retreat, boasted of unmatched US military power, positioning naval assets offshore to enforce compliance.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Hegseth briefed lawmakers, with House Speaker Mike Johnson denying regime change or ground troops but Democrats like Chuck Schumer decry lack of clarity. Europe and UN slam the "abduction," while Venezuela's interim government cooperates amid Trump's no-elections-yet stance for "nursing the country back to health".
Trump floated reimbursing US firms for Venezuelan oil ventures within 18 months via revenues, rejecting quick polls and opposition backing in favor of military pacts. Tensions rise with threats against non-cooperation, echoing Panama Canal rhetoric.