In a significant military operation launched early Saturday, the U.S. military, as confirmed by President Donald Trump, detained Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores. The operation, which President Trump detailed in a Truth Social post shortly after 4:30 a.m. ET, was described as a joint effort between the U.S. military and U.S. law enforcement. The President also announced an upcoming press conference to be held at Mar-a-Lago.
"The operation was successfully executed and Maduro and First Lady Cilia Flores were captured and flown out of the country." - President Donald Trump
President Trump characterized the mission as a decisive action against what he and his administration have consistently described as a narco-terrorist regime. He accused the Maduro government of engaging in drug trafficking, corruption, and violent repression, charges that Maduro has vehemently denied.
The operation led to multiple explosions in Caracas and the surrounding regions of Miranda, Aragua, and La Guaira. Residents reported hearing at least seven blasts, and social media was ablaze with videos showing low-flying aircraft and flashes in the night sky, causing widespread alarm in the capital.
Following the strikes, the Venezuelan government denounced the U.S. military's actions as an act of aggression and declared a state of emergency. Officials called for the mobilization of security forces and civilians, accusing the U.S. of infringing upon Venezuelan sovereignty and aiming to take control of the nation's oil resources.
Vice President Delcy Rodríguez stated that Maduro's whereabouts were unknown and called for proof of life. She also highlighted that the Venezuelan constitution outlines a succession process in the event the president is incapacitated or removed.
As the situation stands, the control of the Venezuelan government remains uncertain. The international community has responded quickly, with some nations condemning the U.S. action as a breach of international law. Others have expressed concern about the potential destabilization of the region and the risk of a humanitarian crisis. Calls for restraint and emergency diplomatic discussions have been made by several countries.
The Federal Aviation Administration has issued a ban on U.S. commercial flights over Venezuelan airspace due to the ongoing military situation. Meanwhile, U.S. citizens in Venezuela have been advised to shelter in place.
In the United States, the legality and political implications of the military action have sparked debate. It is currently unclear if Congress formally authorized the operation or what specific legal grounds the administration is relying upon. Lawmakers from both parties are questioning the extent of presidential war powers and considering the long-term ramifications of direct military intervention.
While independent confirmation of Maduro's capture is limited, President Trump's announcement represents one of the most consequential U.S. military actions in the Western Hemisphere in recent history. The global community is now intently focused on the next steps for Venezuela, the implications for the region, and the trajectory of U.S. foreign policy.
