Nicolás Maduro Captured: What You Need to Know

Mon Jan 05 2026 03:40:08 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

U.S. forces have successfully captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro during a military operation following extensive tensions between the two nations. The capture is tied to serious charges including drug trafficking.

In a significant military operation, U.S. President Donald Trump announced the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, amid escalating tensions with the U.S. The operation involved airstrikes across Caracas targeting military locations. Maduro has been indicted on numerous charges in the U.S., including drug trafficking and weapons offenses. The Venezuelan government has demanded proof of life for Maduro and condemned the U.S. actions as a military aggression. Global reactions are mixed, with Maduro's allies condemning the strikes, while some Latin American leaders express concerns over the violation of sovereignty.

Nicolás Maduro Captured: What You Need to Know

U.S. forces have successfully captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro after a large-scale military operation, as announced by President Donald Trump. This operation comes amid rising tensions between Venezuela and the U.S., highlighted by allegations of drug trafficking.

According to Trump's statement, Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, were extracted from a heavily fortified residence and flown to the U.S. where they face serious charges including conspiracy to commit narco-terrorism and possession of arms. Trump's remarks included that no U.S. casualties occurred during the operation and that it was a meticulously planned mission involving the U.S. military's Delta Force, the elite counter-terrorism unit.

Following the strikes, eyewitnesses in Caracas reported explosions and smoke rising from the city, specifically targeting key military installations. The Venezuelan government vehemently criticized the U.S. actions, demanding proof of life for Maduro and condemning what they termed an 'extremely serious military aggression'.

Global reactions have varied, with Maduro's allies in Russia, China, and Iran calling the U.S. actions a violation of sovereignty. In contrast, supportive voices in Latin America celebrated the operation, indicating shifting alliances in the region.

This pivotal moment in Venezuelan politics could redefine the country’s future and its international relations. More details are expected as the situation unfolds and international leaders respond to President Trump’s announcement.