In a dramatic pre-dawn operation on Saturday, United States forces executed a targeted military strike in Venezuela resulting in the capture of President Nicolás Maduro and First Lady Cilia Flores. The detained leaders were subsequently transported out of the country to face formal narcoterrorism charges in United States federal courts, according to official American statements.
The rapid military intervention has plunged Venezuela into a state of political uncertainty, with preliminary reports indicating casualties though specific numbers remain unconfirmed. Explosions reverberated through Caracas as low-flying aircraft targeted military installations during the approximately 30-minute operation, leaving several areas without power and visible smoke rising from strategic locations.
This escalation follows months of intensified pressure from the Trump administration, which had previously deployed additional naval assets to South American waters and conducted strikes against alleged drug-smuggling operations. The operation represents the most direct confrontation in the ongoing tensions between Washington and Caracas.
U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi confirmed via social media that both Maduro and Flores face multiple indictments in the Southern District of New York, including charges of narco-terrorism conspiracy, cocaine importation conspiracy, and weapons violations. While Maduro’s indictment dates to March 2020, Flores’s charges were previously undisclosed.
The legal justification for the operation remains subject to international scrutiny, with the Trump administration maintaining that Maduro lacks legitimate leadership status and has transformed Venezuela into a criminal enterprise. Senator Mike Lee suggested the action might fall within presidential authority to protect U.S. personnel from imminent threat.
Venezuela’s government condemned the operation as an ‘imperialist attack,’ urging citizens to mobilize in response. The constitutional succession process remains unclear, with Vice President Delcy Rodríguez theoretically positioned to assume power though no confirmation has emerged.
International reactions reflect deep divisions, with Russia condemning the action as ‘unacceptable infringement on sovereignty’ and Cuba urging global response to the ‘criminal attack.’ European allies expressed cautious concern, emphasizing respect for international law while acknowledging Maduro’s contested legitimacy. The European Union called for restraint and adherence to UN Charter principles, while British and Spanish leaders emphasized their non-involvement and urged de-escalation.