UPDATE: In a stunning announcement, President Donald Trump has confirmed that the United States has captured Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, following a series of air strikes on Caracas early this morning. This development marks a major escalation in the long-standing tensions between the two nations.
According to Trump, Maduro and his wife were taken into custody and flown out of the country as part of a coordinated military operation. The president described the mission as a “brilliant operation,” emphasizing the extensive planning and execution by U.S. military forces.
Shortly after the strikes, videos surfaced on social media showing explosions at key military sites, including Fuerte Tiuna and the La Carlota air base. Witnesses reported widespread power outages across the capital, intensifying fears among residents.
“The United States of America has successfully carried out a large-scale strike against Venezuela and its leader, President Nicolas Maduro,” Trump stated on Truth Social.
The attacks, utilizing Black Hawk helicopters and Chinooks, came after months of threats from Trump, who has labeled Maduro a “narco-terrorist.” Since August, the U.S. has bolstered its military presence near Venezuela, conducting operational flights and enforcing a “total blockade” on oil tankers associated with the Maduro regime.
Trump has scheduled a news conference at his private club, Mar-a-Lago, at 11 AM EST (4 PM UK time) to provide further details on the operation. However, he has not yet confirmed whether he sought congressional approval for the strikes, stating he will address that issue later.
In response to the air strikes, the Venezuelan government has called on its supporters to mobilize against what they describe as an “imperialist attack.” They reported strikes occurring not just in Caracas, but also in the regions of Miranda, Aragua, and La Guaira. Maduro has reportedly ordered the implementation of all national defense plans.
“The Bolivarian government calls on all the social and political forces of the country to activate the mobilization plans,” the statement read.
This dramatic turn of events has drawn swift reactions from international leaders. Colombian President Gustavo Petro expressed “deep concern” over the situation, while Cuba’s Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez condemned the attacks as cowardly aggression against a nation that has not attacked the U.S.
The implications of this operation could be far-reaching, potentially altering the balance of power in the region. As the situation develops, the world watches closely for further updates from the Trump administration and the Venezuelan government.
Stay tuned for live updates as this story unfolds.
