U.S. President Donald Trump has stunned the world by announcing the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife through a bold military operation. The development follows reports of explosions in Caracas and other regions, marking a dramatic escalation in U.S.-Venezuela tensions.
Trump revealed on Truth Social that American forces executed a "large scale strike" targeting Venezuela's leadership, resulting in Maduro's apprehension and extraction from the country alongside his wife. Explosions rocked Caracas around 2 a.m. local time, with additional strikes reported in Miranda, Aragua, and La Guaira states, prompting Venezuela's government to declare a national emergency. A press briefing by Trump is scheduled for 11 a.m. at Mar-a-Lago, where further details are expected.
The operation stems from longstanding U.S. charges against Maduro for narco-terrorism and drug trafficking, including ties to groups like Cartel de los Soles and Tren de Aragua. Prosecutors allege Maduro used cocaine as a weapon against the U.S., with a $50 million reward previously offered for his arrest. Recent U.S. actions included seizing Venezuelan oil tankers and striking drug boats.
Venezuela's administration condemned the strikes as "military aggression," rejecting claims and mobilizing social and political forces in response. Maduro has consistently denied the narco-terrorism allegations leveled by Washington.
International outlets report shockwaves from the announcement, with coverage highlighting the operation's ties to U.S. efforts against Venezuelan-linked gangs destabilizing the region. This event unfolds amid Maduro's disputed 2024 reelection and ongoing economic crisis in Venezuela.