US President Donald Trump announced early on January 3, 2026, that American forces had conducted a “large-scale strike” on Venezuela, resulting in the capture of President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, who were subsequently flown out of the country.
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. This operation was done in conjunction with U.S. Law Enforcement.”
The operation followed months of escalating US pressure on Maduro, whom Washington has accused of leading a “narco-terrorist” regime involved in drug trafficking. Reports confirmed multiple explosions in Caracas and nearby areas, including military sites like Fuerte Tiuna and La Carlota air base, with smoke visible and power outages reported.
Venezuela’s government swiftly condemned the action as “extremely serious military aggression,” declaring a national emergency and mobilizing forces.
Vice President Delcy Rodríguez demanded proof of life for Maduro and his wife.
The strikes mark a significant escalation, reminiscent of past US interventions in Latin America.
Trump scheduled a news conference at Mar-a-Lago for further details.
International reactions poured in, with some leaders celebrating the development while others criticized it as aggression.
The situation remains fluid, with potential implications for regional stability.
Source : Truth Social/President Trump
