US has captured Venezuela’s President Maduro and wife, says Trump

January 3, 2026

TL;DR

Donald Trump stated the US captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores.
The capture was part of a "brilliant operation" involving a pre-dawn assault on Caracas.
Maduro and Flores are to face criminal charges and trial in the US based on a 2020 indictment.
International reaction included condemnation from Colombia and a call for a UN Security Council session.
The UN special rapporteur called for an investigation into Trump for the operation.
Venezuela's vice-president confirmed the capture, demanded proof of life, and accused the US of murder.
Venezuela's government described the event as "military aggression" and urged citizens to mobilize.
The defense minister called the operation "deplorable," "criminal," and "barbaric."
The government stated the attack aimed to seize Venezuela's strategic resources, including oil and minerals.
Explosions were heard in Caracas, with witnesses reporting smoke from military installations.
The US has maintained a pressure campaign against Maduro, including military buildup and airstrikes.
Colombia's president listed bombed installations, including the national assembly building and military bases.
Cuba's president denounced the attack as "state terrorism."

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