United States Carries Out Military Strikes On Venezuela, Captures President Nicolás Maduro

The United States launched a large-scale military operation against Venezuela early Saturday morning, capturing President Nicolás Maduro and his wife. President Donald Trump announced the successful mission on Truth Social, saying both Maduro and his wife had been flown out of Venezuela and placed in American custody.

“This operation was done in conjunction with U.S. law enforcement. Details to follow. There will be a news conference today at Mar-a-Lago,” Trump stated.

Their exact location is currently unknown, and Venezuelan officials have demanded proof of life for their detained leader. Multiple explosions were reported in Caracas, with at least seven blasts shaking the city overnight. Venezuelan authorities confirmed airstrikes hit locations in Caracas and nearby states including Miranda, Aragua, and La Guaira.

Utah Senator Mike Lee said he spoke with Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who confirmed Maduro would be brought to the U.S. to face trial. Rubio reportedly added that with Maduro in custody, no further military operations in Venezuela are expected.

Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau declared it “a new dawn for Venezuela,” celebrating the removal of a dictator. Attorney General Pam Bondi said Maduro and his wife will face charges in American courts related to drug trafficking and weapons violations.

“These criminals will soon face the full wrath of American justice,” Bondi said.

The strike followed increased U.S. actions in the region, including the seizure of Venezuelan oil tankers and deadly strikes on boats allegedly carrying drugs. Days before the strike, Maduro had expressed a willingness to negotiate with the U.S. on drug enforcement.

President Trump is scheduled to speak at 11:00 a.m. from Mar-a-Lago to provide further information on the operation and what comes next.