The United States has carried out a large-scale military strike against Venezuela and captured President Nicolas Maduro, according to US President Donald Trump. Trump announced the operation on social media early Saturday, stating that Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, were captured and flown out of the country. In a later interview, Trump described the operation as highly successful and indicated the US would be heavily involved in determining Venezuela's future.
The strikes targeted Caracas and other regions, with explosions heard and smoke seen in the capital. The US has accused Maduro of narco-terrorism and cocaine importation conspiracy, charges announced by Attorney General Pam Bondi. Bondi stated that Maduro and his wife face indictment in the Southern District of New York and will face American justice.
Venezuela's Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino Lopez condemned the actions, calling for national unity and ordering total mobilization of the armed forces. He insisted that Venezuela's independence is not negotiable. Venezuelan Vice President Delcy Rodriguez demanded proof of life for Maduro, while ruling party leader Nahum Fernandez described the capture as a kidnapping from the Fort Tiuna military installation.
The Venezuelan government declared a national state of emergency, labeling the US bombings as military aggression. It accused Washington of attempting to seize the country's oil and mineral resources. The US strikes follow months of tensions, including attacks on alleged drug-trafficking boats in the Caribbean.
Legal experts have criticized the US boat strikes as extrajudicial killings, and UN special rapporteur Ben Saul condemned the operation. US Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau hailed Maduro's capture as a new dawn for Venezuela, stating the tyrant will face justice.
