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This article was automatically translated from the original Turkish version.
The United States’ Air Strikes Against Venezuela and the Capture of Maduro (2026) is the event that occurred on January 3, 2026, when the United States launched a large-scale military operation against Venezuela, resulting in the capture and removal from the country of President Nicolas Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores by U.S. forces.
The operation, described by the Trump administration as a “large-scale attack,” involved intense aerial bombardments targeting military zones in and around the capital Caracas. At approximately 02.00 local time in Caracas, at least seven explosions occurred, with thick smoke rising around the Miraflores Presidential Palace and La Carlota Military Base.
Trump stated that the attack was conducted “in cooperation with U.S. law enforcement forces” and confirmed that Maduro had been “apprehended and removed from the country.” The Venezuelan government labeled the incident an “armed attack on sovereignty” and declared a state of emergency nationwide due to “foreign intervention.”
The U.S. administration justified the operation as part of its fight against drug trafficking and “narcoterrorism.” The U.S. Department of Justice accused the Maduro regime of conducting state-sponsored drug trafficking and claimed that the organization known as “Cartel de los Soles” played a central role in these activities. This group was designated as a terrorist organization by the United States at the end of 2025.
The United States stated that it does not recognize Nicolás Maduro as Venezuela’s legitimate head of state and noted that Maduro, who has held power since 2013, was re-elected in 2024 in elections deemed invalid by international observers. Maduro began his third term in January 2025.
Throughout 2025, the United States government implemented economic sanctions against Venezuela and conducted military operations targeting maritime traffic in the Caribbean and the Pacific Ocean. According to statements by U.S. Defense and executive authorities, these operations were carried out under the framework of combating drug trafficking. Within this context, more than 30 aerial strikes were conducted against vessels designated as “narcotrafficking boats.” U.S. President Donald Trump stated that the purpose of these strikes was to target drug shipment routes.
On December 30, 2025, the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) launched a drone strike against a port facility located off Venezuela’s coast. This attack was recorded as the first known direct military operation conducted by the United States on Venezuelan territory. U.S. officials claimed the targeted facility was used for drug shipments. In the same month, Donald Trump, in an interview, referred to this operation and confirmed that maritime vessels and the surrounding region had been targeted.
Sanctions imposed after 2019 have led to significant changes in the export geography of Venezuelan crude oil. During this period, China became one of the primary buyers of Venezuelan oil. As of 2025, it was reported that China imported a substantial portion of Venezuela’s crude oil, with part of this trade conducted at discounted prices and another part serving as repayment for Venezuela’s existing financial obligations to China. During the same period, potential changes in the sanctions regime and the presence of military pressure, combined with geographical proximity, led to renewed discussions about the possibility of Venezuelan oil returning to the United States market.
It has been noted that in some public statements by retired U.S. General Laura J. Richardson, she emphasized that Venezuela is rich in natural resources such as oil, nickel, and gold, and that these resources hold significance for U.S. national security assessments. These remarks serve as examples of how the Venezuela dossier is framed within the context of security and foreign policy discourse through the lens of natural resources.
Regional competition for resources was not limited to oil; critical minerals such as lithium were also assessed as strategic raw materials during the same period. Rising global demand for energy transition, electric vehicles, and battery technologies has brought mineral resources in the Western Hemisphere to the forefront of economic competition among major powers. Studies on the “Lithium Triangle” — encompassing Argentina, Bolivia, and Chile — have highlighted the region’s share of global lithium supply, with assessments noting that foreign actors’ mining activities often have an extraction-focused character.
On January 2, 2026, Venezuela’s President Nicolas Maduro, in a state television interview, stated that Venezuela was open to negotiations with the United States on cooperation in combating drug trafficking. In the same statement, he did not directly comment on the drone strike allegedly carried out by the CIA but instead reiterated his view that U.S. policy toward Venezuela aims at regime change and access to natural resources. These statements were recorded as reflections of the respective positions of both sides regarding the operations and bilateral relations.
Venezuela possesses the world’s largest proven oil reserves. According to OPEC’s 2025 statistical bulletin, Venezuela’s proven crude oil reserves are recorded at 303.221 billion barrels. This amount represents 24.4% of OPEC’s total reserves and approximately 17.3% of the world’s total proven oil reserves.
Table on Venezuela’s Oil Reserves in the Global Context
Historically, Venezuela’s oil production reached approximately 3.7 million barrels per day in the 1970s but declined gradually in subsequent years. According to the International Energy Agency, as of November 2025, the country produced approximately 860,000 barrels of oil per day. This figure is lower than one-third of its production level ten years ago.
The majority of Venezuela’s proven oil reserves are located in the Orinoco Belt. This region is known for its heavy and extra-heavy oil deposits. The economic viability of extracting these reserves depends on advanced processing technologies, refining capacity, logistical infrastructure, and access to international financing. Production and export activities are conducted through pipelines, port facilities, and maritime transport.
Following Maduro’s detention, Donald Trump announced that U.S. oil companies would invest in Venezuela’s energy infrastructure and increase production. Trump stated that the United States would assume a temporary role in Venezuela’s oil sector.
On January 3, 2026, at approximately 01.50–02.00 local time, explosion sounds were heard in and around the Venezuelan capital Caracas. At least seven explosions occurred across the city, prompting residents in some areas to leave their homes and head into the streets.
Explosions were also detected in La Guaira, located north of Caracas, and in the coastal town of Higuerote, part of Miranda state. Higuerote Airport was subjected to intense bombardment, and widespread power outages occurred throughout the town. Reports indicated that low-flying aircraft and helicopters were observed over the city. It was reported that La Carlota Military Air Base, Fuerte Tiuna Military Base, and the eastern Higuerote Air Base were targeted.
Colombian President Gustavo Petro shared on social media: “Caracas is being bombed… a missile attack is underway.” Images of smoke rising from La Carlota Military Air Base and Fuerte Tiuna Base were broadcast internationally during the attacks.
Following the attacks, widespread power outages occurred across Caracas, and communication networks were disrupted in some areas. In an official statement issued by the Venezuelan government, the attack was described as aiming to “seize the country’s strategic resources and forcibly eliminate its political independence.” It was announced that President Maduro had signed a decree declaring a “state of emergency.”
U.S. President Donald Trump, in a statement on Truth Social, said: “The United States has launched a large-scale attack against Venezuela and its leader, President Nicolas Maduro, and Maduro and his wife have been apprehended and removed from the country.” According to CBS News, Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores were captured by Delta Force, a unit of the U.S. military.
Venezuela’s Vice President Delcy Rodríguez, in a live broadcast on state television, said: “We do not know where President Maduro and the First Lady are… we demand immediate proof of life.”
In an official statement following the attacks, the Venezuelan government stated that the United States carried out attacks against civilians and military installations in the capital Caracas and in the states of Miranda, Aragua, and La Guaira. The statement asserted that these actions constituted a clear violation of the principles of sovereignty, legal equality, and prohibition of the use of force outlined in Articles 1 and 2 of the United Nations Charter.
Venezuela’s Minister of Defense, Vladimir Padrino López, in a televised address, described the attack as “the most abhorrent and criminal regime change operation” and announced that the military had been mobilized nationwide. López stated: “They attacked us, but they will not defeat us… our orientation is peace, but our legacy is the struggle for freedom.”
In a government announcement broadcast on state television VTV, it was reported that President Maduro had signed a “Constitutional Emergency Decree” and issued orders for all national defense plans to be activated promptly. The announcement also stated: “All social and political forces in the country must activate their mobilization plans and condemn this imperialist attack.”
Vice President Delcy Rodríguez, in a brief phone call to state television, said: “Venezuela remains calm, and we are trying to understand the meaning of such a military attack.”
The Venezuelan military announced in official statements that all military units and defense lines across the country had entered a “full mobilization status.” Armored units stationed in and around Caracas increased security measures around the Miraflores Presidential Palace. The Venezuelan government also declared that it “reserves its right to legitimate defense” under Article 51 of the United Nations Charter to protect its people, territory, and independence.
The United States’ air strikes against Venezuela on January 3, 2026 generated a broad diplomatic response from Latin America to Europe and Asia. Various countries assessed the incident as a violation of sovereignty, international law, and the United Nations (UN) Charter and called on the Washington administration to pursue “restraint, dialogue, and peaceful solutions.”
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Türkiye issued a written statement regarding the United States’ large-scale attacks in Venezuela. The statement emphasized that Türkiye was closely monitoring the recent developments in Venezuela and stated: “Türkiye attaches great importance to Venezuela’s stability and the peace and well-being of its people. We call on all parties to act with restraint to prevent negative consequences for regional and international security.”
The statement indicated that Türkiye is ready to make any constructive contribution toward resolving the crisis in Venezuela within the framework of international law and noted that Türkiye’s Embassy in Caracas was maintaining uninterrupted communication with Turkish citizens in the country and coordinating necessary measures.
Colombian President Gustavo Petro, in a post on the social media platform X, said: “Caracas is being bombed right now. A missile attack is being carried out against Venezuela. The Organization of American States (OAS) and the United Nations (UN) must convene immediately.” In a subsequent post, Petro emphasized that Colombia rejects any attack on Latin American sovereignty and ordered its armed forces to enhance security measures along the border in anticipation of a possible refugee influx from Venezuela. Additionally, the Colombian government formally requested an emergency meeting of the UN Security Council.
Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel, in a post on X, said: “Cuba condemns the criminal attack by the United States against Venezuela and demands an urgent response from the international community.” He accused the United States of practicing “state terrorism against the Venezuelan people and the American continent.” The Cuban Ministry of Foreign Affairs called for solidarity among Latin American countries to preserve the region’s status as a “zone of peace.”
Mexico’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in its statement, declared: “The Mexican government strongly condemns and rejects the unilateral military action carried out by U.S. armed forces against Venezuelan territory, which clearly violates Article 2 of the UN Charter.” The statement emphasized that the U.S. actions “threaten regional peace” and called on all parties to pursue a peaceful solution within the framework of international law. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum also cited Article 2 of the UN Charter to affirm that the attack violated international law.
Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, in a post on the social media platform X, said: “The bombing of Venezuelan territory and the detention of the head of state have crossed an unacceptable line. These actions constitute a serious attack on Venezuela’s sovereignty and set a dangerously precedent for the international community.”
President Lula da Silva assessed that “attacking countries by blatantly violating international law is the first step toward a world governed by the law of the strongest, filled with violence, chaos, and instability.” He emphasized that Brazil condemns the use of force and noted that the U.S. intervention in Venezuela evokes memories of past harmful military interventions in the region and threatens regional peace. Lula stated that the international community must intervene through the United Nations and that Brazil supports dialogue and cooperation.
European countries responded to the U.S. attack on Venezuela with varying tones. Statements from European Union (EU) institutions did not directly criticize the Washington administration but emphasized that “compliance with international law and the UN Charter is required.”
EU Council President Antonio Costa said: “I am following the situation in Venezuela with great concern. The European Union calls for de-escalation and a peaceful resolution in full respect of the principles of international law and the United Nations (UN) Charter.” Costa affirmed that the EU will continue to support a peaceful, democratic, and inclusive solution in Venezuela and expressed support for the diplomatic efforts of the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas.European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen reiterated her support for Kallas, emphasizing that any solution must be grounded in respect for international law and the UN Charter. She stated: “We stand with the people of Venezuela and support a peaceful, democratic transition.”
EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kallas underscored that the safety of EU citizens in Venezuela was among the EU’s top priorities. Kallas reported that the EU Ambassador in Caracas had held a phone call with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, adding: “The EU is closely monitoring developments in Venezuela.” Kallas stated: “The EU has repeatedly stated that President (Nicolas) Maduro lacks democratic legitimacy and has advocated for a peaceful transition. International law and the UN Charter must be respected in all circumstances. We call on all parties to exercise restraint.”
European Parliament’s Socialist and Democrats (S&D) Group Chair Iratxe Garcia-Perez said: “Democracy cannot be achieved through bombs or the use of force, especially not to serve the interests of (U.S. President Donald) Trump. Respect for international law and the UN Charter must be upheld.” Garcia-Perez argued that the EU must lead through dialogue and mediation and announced that the S&D Group would request a plenary session of the European Parliament to discuss the situation in Venezuela.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, in his statement on the U.S. attack on Venezuela, said: “I can say that the United Kingdom was not involved in this operation in any way.” He noted that he had not spoken with Trump regarding the rapidly evolving situation and added: “I want to speak with President (Trump) and with our allies.”
Regarding Trump’s claim that Maduro had been apprehended, Starmer said: “As I have always said and believed, we all must comply with international law, but at this stage the situation is developing rapidly. Let us first establish the facts and then act accordingly.” Starmer also mentioned that there are approximately 500 British citizens in Venezuela and said: “We are working rapidly with our embassy to ensure they are well monitored, their security is guaranteed, and they have received appropriate advice. Therefore, we are working closely with the embassy on this matter.”
Danish Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen said: “A dramatic development is unfolding in Venezuela that we are closely monitoring. De-escalation and a return to dialogue are necessary. Respect for international law must be upheld.” Belgian Foreign Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Maxime Prevot also noted that the safety of Belgian citizens in Venezuela was their top priority. Prevot confirmed that Belgium was coordinating with European allies and closely monitoring the situation.
Belgian Foreign Minister Maxime Prevot said: “The safety of our citizens in Venezuela is our top priority.” Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani stated: “We are closely monitoring developments and the safety of Italian citizens. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni is regularly following the situation.”
Slovenian Ministry of Foreign Affairs reported that it was closely monitoring the situation in Venezuela with great concern and called for “de-escalation and respect for international law.” Slovenia also recalled that it does not recognize the results of the most recent elections in Venezuela.
Spain announced, following the U.S. military attack on Venezuela, that it was ready to mediate to end the crisis between the two countries. In a written statement from the Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs, it was stated: “Spain calls for de-escalation, moderation, and full respect for the principles of international law and the United Nations (UN) Charter. In this context, Spain is ready to mediate to find a peaceful and negotiated solution to the current crisis.”
The statement noted that Spain does not recognize the results of Venezuela’s July 28, 2024 elections and has always supported efforts to achieve a democratic solution for Venezuela. It reiterated: “Spain welcomes and will continue to welcome tens of thousands of Venezuelans forced to leave their country for political reasons and is ready to assist in the search for a democratic, negotiated, and peaceful solution.” Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez also called, after the U.S. military air strikes, for “de-escalation and respect for the principles of international law and the UN Charter.”
In a post on the U.S.-based social media platform X, Sánchez said: “The Spanish government is closely monitoring the situation in Venezuela. Our embassy and consulates remain open. We call on everyone to reduce tensions and act responsibly. Respect for international law and the principles of the UN Charter must be upheld.”
Irish Minister for Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade Helen McEntee said: “Ireland, together with our EU partners, emphasizes the absolute necessity of full respect for international law and the principles of the United Nations (UN) Charter. Although we have been clear that President Maduro lacks any democratic legitimacy, we have consistently called for a peaceful and negotiated transition in Venezuela and supported all international efforts in this direction.” McEntee reported that Ireland was coordinating with EU partners to monitor the situation of its consular services.
Acting Prime Minister of the Netherlands Dick Schoof said that the Dutch government was closely monitoring developments in the Caribbean region and the situation in Venezuela following the U.S. operation against Maduro and the attack on Venezuela. Schoof posted on the U.S.-based social media platform X: “Security in the region is of great importance for Aruba, Curaçao, and Bonaire.”
Schoof said he had been in close contact with the prime ministers of the countries within the Kingdom of the Netherlands and stated: “I have assured them that they and the people on the islands can rely on our support during this uncertain period.” The Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a written statement urging Dutch citizens in Venezuela to share their status with family and friends.
Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs stated: “Switzerland calls for de-escalation, restraint, and respect for international law. In this context, the prohibition of the use of force and respect for territorial integrity must be upheld.” Czech Foreign Minister Petr Macinka said: “The United States, through President Trump, has repeatedly warned that tensions could escalate due to the actions of Maduro’s illegitimate regime. We believe it is crucial to calm the situation now and initiate diplomatic negotiations involving Venezuela’s opposition.” Austrian Foreign Minister Beate Meinl-Reisinger, in a post on X, emphasized the need to prevent further escalation and protect international law, calling on all parties to exercise restraint. Meinl-Reisinger noted that Austria would continue working with its EU partners toward a peaceful and democratic solution in Venezuela based on the UN Charter.
According to Iran’s Students News Agency (ISNA), the Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a written statement condemning the United States’ military attack on Venezuela’s “territorial integrity and sovereignty.” The statement emphasized that the U.S. armed attack on Venezuela violated the purposes and principles of the United Nations (UN) Charter and called on the UN to condemn the attack. The ministry stressed that the U.S. military intervention against an independent UN member state would lead to instability and declared: “This initiative constitutes a violation of regional and international peace and security.” The ministry asserted that the planners and perpetrators of crimes committed during the military attack on Venezuela must be held accountable and called on the UN and the Security Council to halt the U.S. “illegal attack.”
The Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in its statement, recalled that the United States had launched an armed attack against Venezuela that morning and stated: “This is an extremely alarming and condemnable situation.” The statement underscored that the justifications used to legitimize such actions are baseless and highlighted that ideological hostility has overtaken pragmatic, trust-based, and predictable relations.
The statement emphasized that preventing further escalation and focusing on finding a solution through dialogue is essential and stated: “We believe that all parties with mutual accusations must seek solutions to their problems through dialogue. We are ready to support them in this regard.”
The statement affirmed that Venezuela must continue to be recognized as a zone of peace and declared: “Venezuela must be guaranteed the right to determine its own destiny without destructive, especially military, external intervention. We reaffirm our solidarity with the Venezuelan people and our support for the Bolivarian government’s path in defending the country’s national interests and sovereignty.” The statement noted that Russia supports the call by Venezuelan authorities and leaders of Latin American countries for an emergency meeting of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) and confirmed that the Russian Embassy in Venezuela is operating normally.
Belarusian Ministry of Foreign Affairs defined the U.S. attack as a “direct threat to international peace and security” and stated: “Belarus expresses unwavering support for Venezuela’s legitimate government and joins the call for an emergency meeting of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), which bears primary responsibility for preserving peace.”
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha, in a post on X, assessed the developments in Venezuela. Sybiha noted that Ukraine has always defended the right of nations to live free from dictatorship, repression, and human rights violations and claimed that the Maduro regime violates these principles in every way. Sybiha emphasized that Ukraine does not recognize the Maduro administration as legitimate and stated: “The Venezuelan people deserve a chance for a normal life, security, prosperity, and a life worthy of human dignity. We will continue to support their rights to normal life, respect, and freedom.” Minister Sybiha also affirmed that Ukraine stands for democracy, human rights, and developments that prioritize the interests of the Venezuelan people. Kosovo President Vjosa Osmani, in her statement, expressed support for U.S. President Trump. Osmani stated that Trump stands with the Venezuelan people and noted that her country understands the impact of the U.S. “determination.”
U.S. President Donald Trump, in a message on Truth Social following the attack, shared: “This operation was conducted in cooperation with U.S. law enforcement forces. Details will be released later. A press conference will be held at Mar-a-Lago at 11:00 today.”
CBS News quoted U.S. officials who stated that the attacks were carried out under Trump’s direct orders and that the targets were military facilities. Officials revealed that the operation had originally been planned for Christmas Day but was postponed due to airstrikes against ISIS targets in Nigeria and adverse weather conditions.
In the immediate hours following the attack, officials from the U.S. White House and Pentagon did not respond to media inquiries. The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announced on January 3, 2026, that U.S. commercial flights were banned from Venezuelan airspace due to “ongoing military operations.”
In a statement by Venezuela’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, it was confirmed that a formal complaint dossier would be prepared and submitted to the United Nations Secretary-General and the Security Council. The statement emphasized that the attack constitutes a threat to international peace and security and violates international law norms. It was reported that after the attacks, Caracas’ military infrastructure suffered heavy damage, and the Higuerote Airport and La Carlota military air base were rendered inoperable. Venezuela’s air and ground forces received orders for “emergency deployment” nationwide, and tanks and armored vehicles were observed patrolling around the capital.
Following the operation, the Venezuelan government activated its “national defense coordination units.” Security measures around the Miraflores Presidential Palace in Caracas were intensified. The United States has not released any official information regarding the location of Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores.
On January 3, 2026, U.S. President Donald Trump announced on his Truth Social account that the attacks against Venezuela were carried out by the United States. In his statement, Trump said: “The United States has launched a large-scale attack against Venezuela and its leader, President Nicolas Maduro, and Maduro and his wife have been apprehended and removed from the country.”
Speaking to the New York Times, Trump defended the operation’s success as the result of excellent planning and highly capable military personnel. Trump said: “There was excellent planning, and very strong and highly skilled soldiers carried out the mission. Frankly, it was an extremely successful operation.” When asked whether he had obtained authorization from the U.S. Congress for the operation and what the next steps regarding Venezuela would be, Trump stated he would address these issues at a press conference to be held at Mar-a-Lago.
In an interview on Fox Television, Trump described how the operation in Venezuela was monitored by a large group of people, including generals from the military. He said: “I watched it like a TV show.”
Trump noted that the U.S. had prepared for every possible scenario during the operation, saying: “They went inside, entered steel-reinforced rooms that were thought to be inaccessible. They extracted them within seconds — I’ve never seen anything like it.” Trump said the operation had been scheduled for four days earlier but was delayed due to weather conditions and launched immediately once conditions improved.
Trump confirmed that several U.S. personnel were injured but there were no fatalities, and that one helicopter sustained damage but all aircraft returned safely.
Trump stated that the timing of the operation was correct: “We had to do this because this is war. We lose 300,000 people every year. If we lost that many in war, we wouldn’t lose them.” He said Maduro was captured from his residence: “It was more like a fortress. There were steel doors, a secure place, reinforced steel everywhere. But they got in. They tried to get in, but we caught them.” Regarding what comes next for Venezuela, Trump said: “We are making the decisions here. We cannot allow someone else to take over and continue from where he left off. We will be deeply involved. We want freedom for the Venezuelan people.”
Trump stated that charges would be filed against Maduro and his wife in New York, saying: “They are currently on a ship, being taken to New York, and were flown to the ship by helicopter.” In response to the question, “What do you see for the future of Venezuela’s oil industry?” Trump replied: “What I see is that we will be deeply involved. I can say that. The world’s most magnificent and largest oil companies will be deeply involved.” Trump noted that the U.S. was prepared for a second wave of operations: “The operation was so powerful that it wasn’t necessary. But we were ready.”
Speaking to Maduro’s supporters, Trump said: “If they remain loyal to him, their future will be very bad.” However, Trump claimed that most of these individuals had changed their minds and that loyalty to Maduro was “quite minimal.” He added: “I noticed today that some people were walking in the streets waving U.S. flags and were very supportive.”
Donald Trump posted a photograph on his Truth Social account showing Maduro’s capture. In the post, Trump wrote: “Nicolas Maduro, aboard the USS Iwo Jima.”
In a document published on the Department of Justice’s website, Maduro is accused of “running a corrupt, illegitimate government for years.” The document further states that Maduro misused state power for unlawful activities, primarily drug trafficking. It alleges that Maduro’s drug trafficking activities enriched Venezuela’s military and political elite and includes the statement: “Maduro has collaborated with the world’s most dangerous drug traffickers and narcoterrorists.”
U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi, in a statement on the U.S.-based social media platform X, announced that an indictment had been filed in the Southern District of New York against Nicolas Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores. Bondi noted that Maduro faces charges of “narcoterrorism, cocaine trafficking, and possession of machine guns and destructive devices against the United States,” and said: “They will soon face the full force of American justice on American soil, in American courts.” Bondi concluded by thanking those involved in the operation, beginning with U.S. President Donald Trump.
U.S. Vice President JD Vance posted on the U.S.-based social media platform X regarding the U.S. attack on Venezuela and the capture of Maduro. Vance argued that President Trump had offered Venezuela many “exit options” but had taken a firm stance on “ending drug trafficking and returning stolen oil to the United States.”
Vance said: “Maduro was the last person to realize that President Trump meant what he said.” He emphasized that Maduro faces numerous criminal charges in the United States under the framework of “narcoterrorism,” stating: “Living in a palace in Caracas does not exempt you from facing justice in the United States for drug trafficking.”
Utah Republican Senator Mike Lee stated that U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio informed him that “Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has been arrested by U.S. personnel to face criminal charges in the United States and that the attacks carried out tonight were conducted to protect and defend those executing the arrest warrant.”
Lee posted on the U.S.-based social media platform X about a phone call he had with Rubio regarding the U.S. attacks on Venezuela and the removal of President Maduro from the country. In his post, Lee wrote: “(Rubio) told me that Nicolas Maduro was arrested by U.S. personnel to face criminal charges in the United States and that the kinetic action we witnessed tonight was carried out to protect and defend those executing the arrest warrant. This action falls under the President’s inherent authority under Article II of the Constitution to protect U.S. personnel from actual or imminent attack.”
U.S. President Donald Trump delivered a comprehensive statement during a press conference held on January 3, 2026 regarding a military operation that lasted from late night until dawn in Caracas, the capital of Venezuela. Trump stated that the operation was conducted under his direct orders and involved the simultaneous deployment of air, land, and naval forces. He described the operation as “extraordinary.”
Trump said that U.S. armed forces employed “overwhelming military power” and that the operation was remarkable in terms of speed, strength, precision, and military proficiency. He noted that the participating troops operated in coordination with U.S. law enforcement agencies.
In his remarks, Trump stated that Venezuelan military forces were prepared for attack and had numerous assets deployed at sea, but these forces were swiftly neutralized. He asserted that Venezuela’s military capacity had been largely rendered inoperative. He confirmed that no U.S. military personnel were killed and no military equipment was lost during the operation.
Trump indicated that the operation targeted a heavily fortified military site located in the center of Caracas. He stated that disruptions to the electrical infrastructure were achieved through U.S. technical capabilities. He compared this operation to previous strikes against nuclear and military targets in Iran.
The U.S. President announced that the objective of the operation was the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife, and that this objective had been achieved. He stated that Maduro and his wife had been placed on a flight bound for the United States; that their judicial proceedings would be conducted by the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York; and that the venue for the trial would be determined between New York and Miami. Trump stated that Maduro and his wife were accused of conducting “deadly narco-terrorism activities” in the United States.
In his speech, Trump labeled Maduro a “illegitimate dictator” and claimed he was responsible for large-scale drug shipments to the United States. He asserted that maritime drug trafficking originating from Venezuela had been largely halted and argued that drugs transported by sea had caused significant loss of life.
In his assessment of the U.S. role in Venezuela, Trump stated that the United States would assume governance until a “safe, appropriate, and cautious transition” was established. He indicated that power would then be transferred to a new authority.
Trump also addressed Venezuela’s oil sector, claiming its infrastructure had been nonfunctional for years. He stated that major U.S. corporations would enter the country to repair the oil infrastructure and restart production, and that these activities would generate revenue for Venezuela’s economy.
The U.S. President noted that a second military operation against Venezuela could be initiated if deemed necessary, and that it could be “much larger” in scale. He stated that a second wave of attacks had been planned in the initial phase, but was no longer required due to the success of the first operation.
At the conclusion of his press statement, Trump described the operation in Venezuela as one of the “most striking, most effective, and most powerful demonstrations of military power and capability” in U.S. military history. He cited the absence of U.S. casualties and the successful achievement of the objective as key reasons for this assessment.
In a later part of the press conference, U.S. President Donald Trump stated that all political and military officials in Venezuela must understand that what happened to Nicolas Maduro could happen to them. Trump declared that “the Venezuelan people are free again” and stated that the United States had become “safer” and “more proud” as a result of these developments.
Following this segment of his remarks, Trump handed the floor to U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth. Hegseth described the operation conducted in the early morning hours as a “large-scale, flawless joint raid carried out in unison by military units and law enforcement forces.”
Hegseth stated that Nicolas Maduro, as previously referenced in relation to Iran, had been given “a chance,” but had failed to seize it. He emphasized that the operation was the culmination of this process.
Later in the press conference, Chairman of the U.S. Joint Chiefs of Staff Dan Caine took the floor and provided details on the planning of the military operation in Venezuela. He revealed that the operation was codenamed Operation Absolute Resolve.
Caine characterized the operation as “covert” and “highly sensitive.” He noted that it required the full participation of all joint force components, with land, sea, air, and marine units operating in coordination with intelligence agencies and law enforcement. He emphasized that all these elements functioned simultaneously within a unified structure.
The Chairman of the Joint Chiefs stated that the operation relied on “unparalleled intelligence capabilities” and the U.S. military’s “decades of experience in counterterrorism.” He explained that the insertion phase was extremely precise, requiring more than 150 aircraft to converge at the exact time and location.
Caine also addressed the preparatory phase prior to the operation, noting that months of work were devoted to gathering intelligence on Nicolas Maduro. During this period, detailed information was collected on his residence, daily routines, and eating habits.
U.S. Joint Chiefs Chairman Dan Caine stated that U.S. forces maintained “complete surprise” during the operation. He confirmed that Venezuela’s air defense systems had been neutralized, enabling the operation to proceed as planned.
According to Caine, U.S. forces reached Maduro’s compound at 01:01 Eastern Time and surrounded the area. He stated that helicopters were brought under fire, and U.S. units responded with “overwhelming force.” One helicopter was hit, but all U.S. aircraft completed the mission and returned safely to their bases.
According to Caine’s account, following these developments, Nicolas Maduro and his wife offered no resistance and surrendered. They were taken into custody by officials from the U.S. Department of Justice. Caine stated that Maduro and his wife were transferred onto the USS Iwo Jima at 03:29 Eastern Time.
Speaking at the press conference, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that Nicolas Maduro was not the legitimate president of Venezuela. He emphasized that this view was not exclusive to the current administration but had also been held by the first Trump administration and the Biden administration. Rubio added that Maduro was not recognized by the European Union or many countries around the world.
Rubio labeled Maduro a “fugitive from American justice” and noted that a $50 million U.S. reward had been offered for his capture. He clarified that with Maduro’s apprehension, the reward would not be paid. U.S. President Donald Trump added that no individual should claim the reward.
Rubio stated that Maduro had been given “multiple opportunities” to avoid this outcome but chose a different path. He claimed that Maduro had invited Iran into his country, facilitating the entry of criminal elements targeting the United States. Rubio asserted that Maduro believed he would face no consequences. He also commented on Donald Trump’s approach to problems, noting that when Trump says he will address an issue, he follows through.
During the question-and-answer portion of the press conference, U.S. President Donald Trump responded to a question about whether U.S. military forces would remain on the ground in Venezuela under U.S. administration. Trump stated that the United States did not hesitate to deploy “ground forces” and confirmed that U.S. troops had been present on the ground at a “very high level” the previous night.
Trump stated that the United States would ensure Venezuela was “properly governed.” When asked which mechanism would be used for governance, he said that certain individuals had already been assigned to this task and their names would be disclosed to the public later. When asked who would govern Venezuela, Trump gestured toward himself and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, indicating that governance would be carried out by those behind them for a transitional period.
Trump also responded to a question about whether he had contacted María Corina Machado, a leading figure in the Venezuelan opposition. Trump said it would be “very difficult” for Machado to become Venezuela’s leader. While describing her as “a very good woman,” he stated that she lacked sufficient support and respect within the country. He therefore concluded that Machado’s assumption of Venezuela’s leadership was not feasible.
Near the end of the press conference, U.S. President Donald Trump addressed Cuba. He stated that Cuba would become a topic of focus in the coming period and affirmed that the United States wished to assist the Cuban people and Cubans forced to leave their country.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio intervened, stating that the President’s remarks must be taken seriously. He noted that Cuban officials had been involved in securing Maduro’s safety and asserted that individuals within the government in Havana should be concerned by these developments.
U.S. President Donald Trump stated that Venezuela’s governance would be carried out by a group until a “safe, appropriate, and cautious transition” was achieved. In response to a question about who from within Venezuela would be part of this group, he said that U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio was in contact with Venezuela’s Vice President Delcy Rodríguez.
Delcy Rodríguez had indicated she was willing to do whatever was required under U.S. demands. Trump’s statement drew attention because Rodríguez has long been one of the highest-ranking figures in Nicolas Maduro’s administration.
Rodríguez became the first Venezuelan official to make a public statement following the U.S. attacks. In a voice message released to the public, she requested evidence from the United States that Maduro and his wife were still alive. Following this statement, speculation arose that Rodríguez might be outside Venezuela; sources speaking to Reuters claimed she was in Russia. The Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs denied these claims. Delcy Rodríguez’s brother, Jorge Rodríguez, is the president of Venezuela’s National Assembly. Both have long been among Maduro’s most staunch defenders.
In response to a question during the press conference, U.S. President Donald Trump explained how the U.S. administration of Venezuela aligned with the “America First” approach. He stated that this strategy aimed to create stable and secure neighbors around the United States. He emphasized that stability in Venezuela was vital to U.S. interests and noted that the country’s energy resources were “very substantial” and needed to be safeguarded.
U.S. President Donald Trump posted a series of images on the social media platform Truth Social. The images are said to depict Trump and senior U.S. officials observing the nighttime military strikes against Venezuela and the capture of Nicolas Maduro and his wife. The images were reportedly taken during the execution of the operation.
Venezuela’s Vice President Delcy Rodríguez, in a statement broadcast on state television, declared that Nicolas Maduro remains the sole president of Venezuela. Rodríguez used the phrase: “There is only one president in Venezuela, and his name is Nicolas Maduro.” This statement followed U.S. President Donald Trump’s earlier designation of Rodríguez as the country’s new leader.
In the same address, Delcy Rodríguez stated that the Venezuelan government was prepared to defend the country. The remarks came after Trump declared that the United States would govern Venezuela. Rodríguez called on the public for calm and unity. In the continuation of her state television address, Rodríguez condemned the “armed attack” on Venezuela. She announced that the country’s Defense Council had been activated. She indicated that further government statements were expected in the coming hours. Rodríguez also stated that Venezuela had an “open and functional government” and was open to respectful and lawful dialogue.
According to the U.S.-based news outlet CBS, the aircraft carrying Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores landed at the Stewart Air National Guard Base in New York state. It was reported that after the aircraft touched down, a large number of U.S. law enforcement officers boarded the plane.
A large group, including an individual believed to be Nicolas Maduro, was observed disembarking from the aircraft at Stewart Air Base. U.S. television networks reported identifying one of the individuals in the footage as Maduro. The group descended the aircraft stairs and moved across the tarmac toward the terminal area.
Following his arrival in New York, Nicolas Maduro is planned to be transported by helicopter to the Westside Heliport in Manhattan. From there, he is expected to be transferred by road to the Manhattan headquarters of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).
After identity verification and registration procedures at the DEA headquarters, Maduro is expected to be transferred to the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn. It was reported that he will be held at this facility prior to appearing before a federal court in Manhattan on charges related to drugs and firearms.
According to footage provided by Reuters, it was reported that three helicopters landed at the Westside Heliport in Manhattan. One of these helicopters is believed to have carried Nicolas Maduro and his wife. After the helicopters landed, it was stated that Maduro would be taken to the DEA office.
U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi announced that an indictment had been filed against Nicolas Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York. The charges include conspiring to engage in narco-terrorism, cocaine trafficking, possessing machine guns and destructive devices, and conspiring to use such weapons.
According to reports in the U.S. press, during the registration process, biometric data including fingerprints and photographs were collected from the couple, and they underwent medical examinations. It was stated that a second registration process would be conducted at the DEA headquarters following these procedures.
The convoy believed to be transporting Nicolas Maduro departed from the DEA headquarters and traveled north along Manhattan’s Westside Highway. It was reported that Maduro and his wife were then flown again by helicopter to the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn.
Three helicopters were reported to have flown along the Hudson River, passing near the Statue of Liberty in New York Harbor, before arriving at the prison under the escort of a security convoy. It was noted that the facility has previously held high-profile inmates. It was stated that Maduro was flown to a U.S. military base in the United States, transferred to a DEA office where he faced formal charges, and then transported to the prison in Brooklyn.
It was reported that Maduro and his wife are scheduled to appear before a judge in New York, although the date of the hearing has not yet been announced.
In Caracas, the Venezuelan Supreme Court of Justice decided to appoint Vice President Delcy Rodríguez as interim president of the country. The court stated that the decision was taken to ensure administrative continuity and guarantee the defense of national unity.
According to Reuters, the court also announced that it would initiate negotiations to establish a legal framework to guarantee the continuity of the state, public administration, and the defense of sovereignty in the event of Maduro’s “forced absence.”
Chairman of the U.S. Joint Chiefs of Staff Dan Caine shared details of the military operation named Operation Absolute Resolve during a previously held press briefing. According to the statements, air, land, space, maritime, and intelligence elements coordinated over several months to plan the operation.
On the night of 2 January transitioning to 3 January at 22:46 Eastern Time, U.S. President Donald Trump officially approved the operation. As part of the operation, 150 aircraft departed from 20 different bases across the Western Hemisphere toward Venezuela.
The force tasked with apprehending Maduro and his wife moved toward the target area at 01:01 Eastern Time on 3 January, using a combination of helicopters and ground units. This force was protected from the air by F-22, F-35, F/A-18, EA-18, E-2 aircraft, B-1 bombers, and unmanned aerial vehicles.
It was reported that during the operation, helicopters came under fire, with one being hit but retaining its flight capability. It was announced that Maduro and his wife were transferred onto the ship USS Iwo Jima after 03:39 Eastern Time.
U.S. Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy announced that restrictions on airspace over the Caribbean would be lifted effective 00:00 Eastern Time. The secretary stated that airlines had been notified and flight plans would be updated.
Following a large-scale military operation targeting Venezuela, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration had imposed restrictions on Caribbean airspace, resulting in the cancellation of hundreds of flights. It was reported that numerous airlines, including American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Spirit Airlines, and JetBlue Airways, were affected by this situation.
On January 4, 2026, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio made a series of statements beginning in the morning to various national U.S. media outlets following the U.S. operation in Venezuela.
In his remarks, Rubio emphasized that the U.S. operation was “not a war against Venezuela” and described it as a security and law enforcement action conducted under the framework of combating drug trafficking. He stated that the U.S. would evaluate its stance toward Venezuela in the future “based on the concrete steps the country takes”.
In an interview with ABC News, Rubio explained why authorization from the U.S. Congress was not sought prior to the operation; he asserted that it was neither an occupation nor a military invasion, and therefore congressional approval was not deemed necessary. He characterized the operation as a law enforcement action conducted within a legal framework. In the same statement, he confirmed that Nicolás Maduro had been “apprehended in the field by agents of the U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)”.
Rubio noted that factors such as the risk of operational leaks, weather conditions, and the mobility of the targeted individuals justified the failure to inform Congress in advance.
In statements to NBC News and CBS News, Rubio stressed that the U.S. would assess Venezuela “not by its rhetoric but by its actions”. He affirmed that the U.S. would retain “multiple leverage and pressure mechanisms” to protect its interests, including a petroleum embargo, economic sanctions, and seizures of vessels carrying drugs.
Rubio stated that no agreement or compromise had ever been reached with the Maduro administration in the past, yet “very generous offers” had been extended to Maduro. He noted that Maduro had been offered the opportunity to leave the country up to approximately a week and a half earlier but had declined to take it.
Rubio asserted that certain elements within Venezuela’s military and police forces were “openly collaborating with drug trafficking organizations”, a situation that constitutes a direct national security threat to the United States. He affirmed that the U.S. would continue its seizure operations against vessels detected carrying drugs.
Rubio indicated that the U.S. expected tangible changes regarding drug trafficking and irregular migration flows originating in Venezuela, and noted that developments in these areas would be decisive in the U.S. assessment.
Rubio responded to questions regarding the legitimacy of Delcy Rodríguez, who has been appointed interim head of state in Venezuela; he clearly stated that the U.S. does not recognize the current Venezuelan government as legitimate. However, he acknowledged that the U.S. is aware of individuals in positions capable of effecting real change in the country, and emphasized that legitimacy can only emerge through a transition process and elections.
Following the apprehension of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, U.S. President Donald Trump stated in his remarks that control over Venezuela now resides in the United States. Trump declared that the U.S. aims to “restore order” in Venezuela, restructure its petroleum infrastructure, and then prepare the country for elections; however, he provided no details on how this process would unfold.
In an interview with the U.S.-based magazine The Atlantic on January 4, 2026, Trump commented on Delcy Rodríguez, who has been appointed interim head of state following Maduro’s detention. Trump warned that Rodríguez would “pay a very high price” if she fails to do the right thing, and suggested that this price could be heavier than what Nicolás Maduro faced. Trump insisted that Rodríguez must act in accordance with U.S. demands.
Trump described Venezuela’s current situation as “turned into hell” and a “failed state”. He argued that the planned process of reconstruction and regime change could not possibly result in a condition worse than the current one. In his remarks, Trump claimed that the U.S. intervention in Venezuela was not an isolated case, and referenced Greenland in the context of the U.S.’s broader approach to global security.
On January 5, 2026, while returning from Florida to Washington aboard Air Force One, Trump reiterated to reporters that control over Venezuela now resides in the United States. He stated: “We will manage everything in the country and fix it. Elections will be held at the right time.”
Trump defended the military intervention in Venezuela as correct and justified, asserting that large quantities of drugs are shipped from the country to the U.S. and that Nicolás Maduro “has been running a narco-terrorist state”. He argued that Venezuela’s current condition requires comprehensive restructuring, and predicted that major American oil companies would invest billions of dollars in the country.
Trump stated that the U.S. is in close contact with interim president Delcy Rodríguez, though he himself has not spoken directly with her; instead, he noted that officials in his cabinet have established contact. Trump confirmed that Rodríguez is cooperating with the U.S., but provided no details on the nature of this cooperation. He also stated that the U.S. will not make direct investments in Venezuela, but will assume a guiding role in governance and infrastructure processes.
Trump stated that the military operation plan against Maduro included preparations for a second attack if necessary, but that such a step was not required since the initial operation achieved its objective. He emphasized that a second military intervention remains on the table at all times if Venezuela’s stance toward the U.S. does not change, using the phrase: “This is Venezuela, this is our region.”
Trump also indicated that military options could be reconsidered if Venezuela’s government refuses to cooperate. In the same remarks, he targeted Colombian President Gustavo Petro, warning that if drug flows from Colombia to the U.S. are not halted, military options could be evaluated. Trump also called on Mexico to “restore order”.
Trump stated that holding elections in Venezuela is possible, but only when the “right time” arrives. He argued that before elections, the country’s infrastructure must be repaired, public order restored, and economic conditions improved. He made clear that elections are not on the agenda until this process is completed.
On January 4, 2026, U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth responded to a question regarding what it means for the U.S. to manage Venezuela. He stated that this means “the conditions are set by the United States”, and that these conditions are determined by U.S. President Donald Trump, with the final implementation decisions resting with Trump.
Hegseth argued that the U.S. military actions against Venezuela and the detention of President Nicolás Maduro are the “exact opposite” of the U.S. occupation of Iraq. He contended that these steps aim to halt the flow of drugs to the United States and that the petroleum being recovered represents the return of what was taken from the U.S..
In response to a question about the message these actions send to other countries, Hegseth described Donald Trump as “a president focused on action” and confirmed that the operations against Venezuela were conducted under Trump’s direct leadership.
The Trump administration’s military operation against Venezuela has drawn criticism from members of the Democratic Party. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer labeled the military action launched without congressional authorization as “recklessness” and insisted that the administration must immediately brief Congress on its future plans.
Democratic Senator Tim Kaine announced in a written statement that he will push for a vote in the Senate on a war powers resolution aimed at blocking Trump’s military actions in Venezuela. Independent Senator from Vermont Bernie Sanders called on Congress to “end the unlawful military operation and reassert constitutional responsibilities”, asserting that the U.S. president does not have the authority to unilaterally plunge the country into war.
Democratic Senator Ruben Gallego stated on social media that the U.S. has moved from the position of “the world’s policeman” to that of “the world’s bully”, noting that there is no justification for war with Venezuela. Senator Andy Kim criticized President Trump, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth.
Democratic Representative Jim McGovern stated that the operation against Venezuela lacked both congressional authorization and public support. Democratic Representative Melanie Stansbury argued that the attacks are unlawful and affirmed that President Trump does not have the authority to declare war or conduct large-scale military operations without Congress.
Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez stated that despite the administration’s justification of drug trafficking, the attacks are unrelated to drugs. Representative Rashida Tlaib declared that the U.S. attacks on Venezuela and the detention of Maduro constitute serious violations of international law and the U.S. Constitution.
Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Mexico, Uruguay, and Spain issued a joint statement condemning the U.S. military intervention in Venezuela. The statement declared that the U.S. actions “pose an extremely dangerous precedent for regional peace and security” and endanger the civilian population.
The six countries emphasized that a solution to the crisis in Venezuela must be achieved through peaceful means such as dialogue and negotiation, and affirmed that external interventions are incompatible with international law. The statement drew attention to the prohibition on the use or threat of force under the United Nations Charter.
Groups supporting the Venezuelan opposition held demonstrations in various cities worldwide on January 4–5, 2026. Protests and rallies took place at Trafalgar Square in London, Arc de Triomf in Barcelona, and in cities including Santiago, Lille, Madeira, and Munich. Demonstrators demanded Edmundo González assume the presidency and the release of political prisoners.
The U.S. military intervention in Venezuela and the detention of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro triggered protest demonstrations organized by left-wing and far-left political groups in Spain. Protests began on January 4, 2026 and continued through January 5, 2026 in the capital Madrid as well as in Bilbao and Seville.
The demonstration in Madrid was held under the banner “Against Imperialist Aggression Against Venezuela” in front of the U.S. Embassy. Participants included communist and far-left civil society organizations, United Left, the Communist Party, Podemos Party, Latin Americans living in Madrid, and Palestinians.
Podemos Party leader Ione Belarra, speaking to the press during the protests, labeled the U.S. intervention in Venezuela as a “unlawful military intervention” and characterized the process as “a war for oil”. Belarra classified the events in Venezuela as “state terrorism” and described U.S. President Donald Trump as “the most important terrorist in the world”.
Belarra also referred to Trump as “Hitler of our time”, calling for the severing of relations with the U.S., the international isolation of the United States, and Spain’s withdrawal from NATO.
Protests have also taken place in New York. Demonstrations were held in front of the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn, where Maduro is being held. The protests began on January 4, 2026. For hours, large crowds protested the U.S. military intervention in Venezuela and Maduro’s transfer to the U.S. for trial. Protesters demanded that the U.S. withdraw from Venezuelan territory and release Nicolás Maduro.
Protesters argued that the U.S. administration’s intent to prosecute Maduro is not aimed at bringing freedom to Venezuela, but rather constitutes an attempt to seize control of the country’s subsoil resources.
United States’s military intervention in Venezuela resulted in the deaths of 32 Cuban soldiers and police officers, as announced by the Cuban government on 5 January 2026. A statement broadcast on Cuban state television indicated that the personnel were in Venezuela at the time of the U.S. intervention, carrying out a mission at the request of the Venezuelan government.
The statement confirmed that the 32 Cuban soldiers and police officers were killed while on duty during the U.S. military operation; it was also announced that the Cuban government declared two days of national mourning. Officials extended condolences to the families of the deceased.
According to English-language sources, the Cuban government identified the deceased as members of the Cuban Armed Forces and intelligence units. Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel stated that these personnel were assigned to provide security for Nicolás Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores at the request of the Venezuelan government. The official statement specified that the Cuban personnel lost their lives “directly in combat or during bombardments”.
Venezuelan authorities confirmed that the United States conducted air strikes against the compound in Caracas where Maduro was located; however, they have not released an official figure for total casualties during the operation. According to an English-language news report, the New York Times cited an unnamed Venezuelan official stating that at least 80 people were killed in the attacks, with the number expected to rise. This information has not been independently verified.
Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez spoke at an extraordinary virtual summit of the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC) following the U.S. military intervention in Venezuela. Rodríguez described the intervention as “a historical and multidimensional existential threat to Latin America” and called on CELAC nations to jointly defend their independence and sovereignty.
Rodríguez rejected the U.S. view of Latin America as its “backyard” and affirmed that Cuba would oppose any pressure on the region through imperialist and coercive methods. He also emphasized the need to use all diplomatic and political channels to secure the immediate release of Nicolás Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores.
Nicolás Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores will appear before a judge at the federal Manhattan courthouse in New York on Monday 5 January 2026. The hearing is scheduled for 12:00 local time (17:00 GMT). Court officials stated that this initial hearing will be procedural and mark the beginning of a lengthy judicial process.
It has been reported that Maduro is being prosecuted under a “drug trafficking case that has been ongoing for 15 years, during which he has been a defendant for the past six years”. The case will be presided over by U.S. District Judge Alvin K. Hellerstein.
Following the removal of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro by the United States, the Supreme Tribunal of Justice of Venezuela (Tribunal Supremo de Justicia – TSJ) appointed Vice President Delcy Rodríguez as acting president on 4 January 2026. The court’s ruling stated that the appointment was made to ensure administrative continuity and safeguard national defense.
On the same day, Rodríguez presided over a meeting attended by civil and military officials. The TSJ statement affirmed that Rodríguez would assume all powers and responsibilities of the presidency during the interim period.
In remarks broadcast on state television, Delcy Rodríguez characterized the United States’ military operation against Venezuela as a “brutal attack” and called for the immediate release of Nicolás Maduro. She affirmed that Maduro is the only legitimate president of Venezuela and labeled his removal by the United States as an “abduction”, insisting that Venezuela is not a colony of the United States.
Venezuelan Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino López, speaking on behalf of the armed forces, declared the military’s loyalty to Delcy Rodríguez and announced that they are on full alert to maintain national sovereignty. The statement described U.S. actions as “imperialist aggression.” Padrino López reiterated that Nicolás Maduro is the legitimate president elected by the Venezuelan people and called for his immediate release.
It was announced that Delcy Rodríguez will be formally sworn in as acting president on 5 January 2026 at 08:00 local time (12:00 GMT) in Caracas. She is expected to carry out her duties with the support of the judiciary, political institutions, and the Venezuelan Armed Forces during this period.
On January 5 2026, Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores were brought to the Daniel Patrick Moynihan Manhattan United States Courthouse in Manhattan for their initial court hearing. Maduro was brought into the courtroom of the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York wearing a prison uniform and with his ankles chained. It was reported that camera use was not permitted in the courtroom and only a limited number of journalists were allowed to relay information from inside. According to reports, neither Maduro nor Flores had their hands cuffed, a condition that allowed Maduro to shake hands with his attorney.
During the hearing, it was reported that Maduro and Flores sat at the same table and both used wired headsets for interpretation. The session was presided over by Alvin Hellerstein, who read aloud to the court a summarized version of the indictment prepared against both individuals.
During the reading of the indictment, Maduro pleaded not guilty to all four charges brought against him. The charges included conspiracy to engage in drug trafficking and terrorism, conspiracy to import cocaine, and possession of machine guns and destructive devices. In his statement to the judge, Maduro said: “I am innocent. I am not guilty. I am a good person.” In his statement regarding his political status, he said through an interpreter: “I am innocent. I am not guilty. I am a good person and the president of my country.”
During the same hearing, Maduro stated that he had not seen the full text of the indictment beforehand, that he and his attorneys had only reviewed it “partially”, but that he wished to read the entire document himself and informed the court of this request. He also claimed to the United States that he had been forcibly taken from his home in Caracas, the capital of Venezuela.
After Maduro’s not guilty plea, Cilia Flores also pleaded not guilty to the charges against her relating to drugs and weapons. Flores identified herself before the court as “the first lady of the Republic of Venezuela” and stated: “I am not guilty. I am completely innocent.”
Judge Hellerstein affirmed during the hearing that a fair trial would be conducted and recorded the contents of the indictment in the court record. According to U.S. media reports following the hearing, as Maduro left the courtroom he said: “I am a prisoner of war.”
Maduro’s defense attorney Barry Pollack stated that there were legal concerns regarding the circumstances of Maduro’s capture and that Maduro suffers from certain medical conditions that may require medical intervention.
Cilia Flores’s attorney Mark Donnelly stated that his client suffered serious injuries during her capture, possibly including a fractured or severely bruised rib, and that she requires a physical examination. According to media reports, observers noted that Flores had a bandage on her forehead, bruising around her right eye, and held onto a U.S. officer’s arm when standing up.
Protests were held outside the courthouse where Maduro and Flores were being tried by groups with differing views. One group of protesters condemned the U.S. attacks on Caracas and called for the release of Maduro and Flores. Another group criticized Maduro’s actions in Venezuela and expressed support for the judicial process. It was reported that security measures around the courthouse had been heightened.
The defense attorneys informed the court that Maduro and Flores would not request bail at this stage but might apply for it at a later date. The initial hearing concluded after these procedural matters; the court announced that the second hearing would take place on March 17 and that Maduro would be brought back before the court for that proceeding.
Delcy Rodríguez formally assumed the office of Interim President of Venezuela on 5 January 2026, following an oath-taking ceremony held during a session of the National Assembly of Venezuela. The ceremony was conducted as part of the National Assembly’s opening program for its regular legislative period.
In her address during the oath ceremony, Rodríguez referred to the U.S. military operation on the United States’s part on 3 January 2026 that resulted in the detention of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores, stating: “I am here with sorrow over the abduction of our two heroes, our President Nicolás Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores, held hostage by the United States.”
The oath text emphasized that Venezuela’s sovereignty would be defended, its national integrity preserved, and the people’s future guaranteed. Rodríguez declared that she would work tirelessly until her country reached the level it deserved as a free and sovereign nation, underscoring the interim nature of her mandate and the continuity of administrative functions.
Following the oath ceremony, National Assembly President Jorge Rodríguez announced that Delcy Rodríguez had been officially proclaimed “Interim President”. Thus, Delcy Rodríguez became the first woman in Venezuelan history to assume the presidency.
Following the United States’ military intervention in Venezuela on 3 January 2026, the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) convened an emergency session in New York on 5 January. The meeting was called at Colombia’s request and supported by Russia and China.
The meeting addressed the U.S. operation to detain Nicolás Maduro and the aerial strikes carried out on Venezuelan territory. Venezuela’s Permanent Representative Samuel Moncada, in his statement before the UNSC, declared that his country had been the target of an “unlawful armed attack without any legal justification” and condemned the “abduction of the constitutional president and his wife, Cilia Flores.”
Moncada emphasized that the attack violated the UN Charter’s prohibition on the use of force and the principle of sovereign equality of states, asserting that the incident constituted a breach of international law norms.
Russia’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Vassily Nebenzia, condemned the U.S. intervention as a violation of international law. Nebenzia stated: “The beginning of this new year shocked the entire world that still believes in the fundamental principles of respect for international law, non-intervention in the internal affairs of other states, trust in diplomacy, and the pursuit of consensus.”
Nebenzia described the U.S. actions as “international banditry” and called for the intervention to be subjected to an “objective and comprehensive review at the level of international law” through UN mechanisms. He also criticized the notion of a “rules-based world order,” stating that the intervention had “shocked even the most hardened Atlanticists.”
China’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Fu Cong, characterized the U.S. actions against Venezuela as “unilateral, unlawful and bullying” initiatives.
Fu stated: “No country can be the world’s policeman, and no state can claim the role of international judge,” and urged the United States to “listen to the voice of the international community and comply with the UN Charter.”
China called for the immediate release of Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores and stressed that the current crisis could only be resolved through dialogue and negotiation.
Representatives of Brazil, Colombia, Pakistan, Somalia, France and Denmark also spoke during the UNSC session. Brazil’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Sérgio França Danese, said: “These actions constitute a severe attack on Venezuela’s sovereignty and set an extremely dangerous precedent for the entire international community.”
Colombia’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Leonor Zalabata Torres, assessed the U.S. intervention as a violation of sovereignty and declared: “Under no circumstances can unilateral use of force legitimize an act of aggression.”
Pakistan, Somalia, France and Denmark representatives all called for full adherence to the UN Charter and international law in their statements.
United States’ Permanent Representative to the UN, Mike Waltz, stated during the Council session that his country was not waging war against Venezuela and described the operation as a “law enforcement action.”
Waltz asserted: “We are not occupying a country; this is a law enforcement operation,” explaining that the intervention was carried out to implement long-standing legal allegations against Maduro. He labeled Maduro a “so-called illegitimate president” and stated that the U.S. objective was to “protect American citizens from narco-terrorism and enforce justice.” Waltz further noted that Maduro would face trial on charges of cocaine trafficking, armament, and narco-terrorism.
Waltz declared: “You cannot allow some of the world’s largest energy reserves to remain under the control of America’s enemies and illegitimate leaders, and permit these resources to serve the interests of a narrow oligarchic group within Venezuela rather than its people.” This statement linked Venezuela’s resources to U.S. security interests.
The Swiss Federal Council announced on 5 January 2026 that it had decided to immediately freeze all assets of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and individuals linked to him in Switzerland.
The statement read: “The Federal Council has decided to immediately freeze all assets of Venezuelan President Maduro and other persons linked to him in Switzerland.”
The measure was taken to prevent the outflow of assets and was clarified to apply only to individuals associated with the Maduro administration, not to the broader Venezuelan government. The Swiss government stated that, should future legal proceedings establish that these funds were obtained illegally, it would seek to ensure their use for the benefit of the Venezuelan people. This decision supplements existing Venezuelan sanctions under the Embargo Act, which has been in force since 2018.
The Swiss Federal Council’s decision explicitly stated that the measure was taken under the framework of the “Embargo Act.” It further indicated that the asset freeze had been expanded on the grounds of international financial sanctions and human rights considerations. The decision text clearly specified that the freeze was part of existing sanctions against the Venezuelan government and that no sanctions were imposed directly on the new interim administration ensuring administrative continuity.
On January 7, 2026, United States President Donald Trump announced that 30 to 50 million barrels of oil would be transferred from Venezuela to the United States. The statement indicated that the volume of oil to be transferred was expressed as a range and that the transfer would be evaluated as part of a process led by the U.S. administration.
In Trump’s statement, a general framework was outlined regarding the economic and strategic dimensions of the oil transfer, but no detailed timetable for the stages of the process was provided. The statement also indicated that the decision to transfer oil to the United States was framed within the context of current political and military developments.
On the same day, the White House stated that the U.S. administration has “maximum influence” over the Venezuelan government. Through the White House Press Office, it was affirmed that the United States holds an influential position regarding governance processes in Venezuela.
The statement did not provide detailed technical information on the specific tools or mechanisms through which this influence is exercised, but it emphasized the U.S. influence over decision-making processes in Venezuela. The declaration presented a framework asserting that the U.S. administration plays a decisive role in its approach to Venezuela across political, military, and administrative domains.
On January 8, 2026, Venezuelan authorities announced that the number of casualties during U.S. military intervention in Venezuela had risen to 100. The statement linked the increase in casualties directly to the military intervention process.
The information released by the Venezuelan government noted that the death toll had increased compared to previous statements, but it did not provide a detailed breakdown of the locations, timeframes, or statuses of those killed. The announcement confirmed an update to official data regarding the humanitarian consequences of the military intervention.
According to a Washington Post report citing U.S. officials familiar with the matter, the U.S. government estimated that approximately 75 people were killed during a military raid aimed at capturing Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro in Caracas.
According to the report, one U.S. official speaking on condition of anonymity stated that between 75 and 80 people were killed during the operation, while another official put the death toll at no fewer than 67. These assessments included members of Venezuelan and Cuban security forces killed during the operation, as well as civilians who lost their lives in the clashes.
Meanwhile, a previous report by the New York Times, citing a senior Venezuelan official, stated that the death toll from the U.S. military operation carried out on Saturday had risen to 80. The same report also included assessments suggesting the death toll could rise further in the coming period.
On January 8, 2026, U.S. President Donald Trump stated that U.S. control over Venezuela could last for many years. The statement emphasized that the U.S. presence in Venezuela was not intended as a temporary measure.
Trump’s statement did not specify a precise time frame for the duration of U.S. control, but it underscored that this control was not a short-term initiative.
On January 8, 2026, the U.S. Senate cleared the way for a bill aimed at limiting President Donald Trump’s authority to use military force in Venezuela. In the vote, 52 senators voted “yes,” 47 voted “no,” and five Republican senators supported the bill. The proposed amendment, considered under the War Powers Resolution, has been placed on the agenda for final vote in the full Senate. If passed by the Senate, it would be sent to the House of Representatives, though its chances of becoming law are considered low and a presidential veto is expected. It was noted that Congress lacks the two-thirds majority required to override a potential veto.
On January 9, 2026, thousands of people in Venezuela’s capital, Caracas, held a demonstration in support of President Nicolas Maduro, who was reported to have been detained during the U.S. military operation. The march in the city center protested the U.S. military intervention and condemned the detention of Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores.
On the same day, Jorge Rodriguez, President of Venezuela’s National Assembly, announced that a large number of Venezuelan and foreign nationals had been released unilaterally as part of a peace initiative. The statement indicated that the decision was taken in line with the goals of “national unity” and “peaceful coexistence.”
Security measures were implemented in Caracas during the release process; officials stated that the releases were carried out within the framework of the country’s justice system. No official figure was provided for the number of individuals released. Civil society organizations reported that hundreds of political prisoners remain incarcerated in Venezuela.
Jorge Rodriguez thanked former Spanish Prime Minister Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero, Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, and the Qatari leadership for their contributions to the process. He also stated that dialogue would continue with political parties and civil society organizations operating within the constitutional framework.
On January 9, 2026, U.S. President Donald Trump, in a television interview, stated that American oil companies would rebuild Venezuela’s oil infrastructure and that at least $100 billion in spending would be made in this context. Trump argued that elections would be held in Venezuela in the future and announced that the U.S. administration would hold meetings with oil companies at the White House. Trump also commented on Cuba–Venezuela relations, asserting that Cuba is economically dependent on Venezuela.
On January 9, 2026, Delcy Rodriguez, who assumed the role of acting president of Venezuela, stated in her address regarding the U.S. military intervention that she and others remained loyal to the detained President Nicolas Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores. Rodriguez condemned the U.S. intervention and affirmed that Venezuela’s armed forces and people would not surrender. The statements were broadcast publicly through a military ceremony and state television.
On January 9, 2026, U.S. President Donald Trump announced that the previously planned second wave of military attacks on Venezuela had been canceled due to cooperation with Venezuela, particularly in the areas of oil and gas infrastructure. In a social media post, Trump noted that Venezuela had begun releasing a large number of political prisoners as a step toward peace and described this development as a “significant gesture.”
Trump stated that a cooperation process was underway to build a larger and more modern oil and gas infrastructure between the United States and Venezuela, and that this cooperation rendered the second military wave unnecessary. The statement noted that existing military assets and vessels would remain in their current locations for reasons of security and safety.
In the same statement, Trump indicated that he would meet with executives of oil companies at the White House that day and expressed the expectation that investments in Venezuela’s energy sector would reach at least $100 billion.
On the same day, it was announced that a delegation from the U.S. Department of State had traveled to Venezuela’s capital, Caracas, to assess the possibility of reopening the U.S. Embassy, which had been closed in 2019. The delegation, composed of diplomatic and security personnel, was said to be conducting technical and logistical evaluations regarding the phased resumption of embassy operations.
The delegation included John McNamara, the U.S. Chargé d’Affaires at the U.S. Embassy in Bogota. U.S. officials noted that preparations for reopening the embassy were ongoing and that the final decision would be made by the U.S. President. It was reported that Trump had previously indicated on January 4, 2026, that reopening the embassy was under consideration.
The United States had deemed Nicolas Maduro’s reelection in Venezuela’s 2018 elections illegitimate and consequently closed its embassy in Caracas in 2019. Since then, diplomatic contacts between the two countries have been conducted through the U.S. Embassy in Colombia.
On January 10, 2026, Trump met with senior executives of U.S. oil companies at the White House to discuss investment and reconstruction of Venezuela’s oil sector. Attendees included executives from Chevron, ExxonMobil, ConocoPhillips, Halliburton, Shell, Repsol, Eni, and other multinational energy companies. Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and Secretary of Energy Chris Wright also attended the meeting.
In his remarks at the meeting, Trump stated that American companies possess the capacity to rapidly rebuild Venezuela’s long-decaying oil infrastructure. He emphasized that this process aims to significantly increase oil production—benefiting the United States, the Venezuelan people, and global energy markets.
Trump announced that Venezuela was sending approximately 30 million barrels of oil valued at $4 billion to the United States and that this oil was already en route. The U.S. administration would determine which companies would operate in Venezuela, and direct agreements would be made with these companies.
The U.S. President emphasized that security guarantees would be provided to oil companies, and that they would deal directly with the United States rather than Venezuelan authorities. The statements indicated that American companies would have the opportunity to rebuild Venezuela’s energy infrastructure and raise oil production to unprecedented levels.
Trump stated that companies would need to invest at least $100 billion to establish the necessary capacity and infrastructure, and that these firms required security and political protection rather than state funding. Venezuela had agreed to immediately refine and sell up to 50 million barrels of U.S.-bound Venezuelan crude oil, and this arrangement was stated to be indefinite.
Trump argued that if the United States did not undertake energy investments in Venezuela, China or Russia would do so. He conveyed a message to China and Russia that they should not establish energy infrastructure in Venezuela, while noting that both countries could purchase oil from the United States. This approach underscored that the reconstruction of Venezuela’s energy sector was being framed within the context of global geopolitical competition.
On January 10, 2026, the Venezuelan government announced that channels for diplomatic dialogue aimed at restoring relations with the United States had been opened. The statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized the Bolivarian government’s commitment to peace diplomacy.
The statement condemned the U.S. military intervention as contrary to international law, but affirmed Venezuela’s preference for resolving the conflict through diplomatic means. The process was said to aim at addressing the consequences of attacks and attempts to detain Venezuela’s leadership and to establish a joint agenda on areas of mutual interest.
Venezuela confirmed that a diplomatic delegation from the U.S. Department of State had arrived in Caracas for technical and logistical assessments, and that a Venezuelan delegation would soon be sent to the United States. It reiterated that the U.S. Embassy in Caracas had remained closed since diplomatic relations were suspended in 2019.
On January 3, 2026, the United States launched a large-scale air strike against Venezuela. During the operation, President Nicolás Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores were captured and removed from the country. At least seven explosions occurred in Caracas, military bases were targeted, and widespread power outages affected the city. The United States has not disclosed any information regarding the location where Maduro and his wife are being held.
U.S. President Donald Trump announced that 30 to 50 million barrels of oil would be transferred from Venezuela to the United States, while the White House stated that the U.S. administration now has maximum influence over the Venezuelan government. Concurrently, the U.S. military operation in Caracas aimed at capturing Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro came to light. U.S. officials estimated that approximately 75 people lost their lives during the operation, while Venezuelan authorities reported that the death toll had risen to 100.
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January 3, 2026
Background of the Operation
January 3, 2026
Air Strikes of January 3, 2026
January 3, 2026
Venezuela’s Government and Military Response
January 3, 2026
International Reactions
January 3, 2026
Diplomatic and Military Consequences
January 3, 2026
Statements by U.S. President Donald Trump and Subsequent Developments
January 3, 2026
Press Statement by U.S. President Donald Trump on the Venezuela Operation (January 3, 2026)
January 3, 2026
Statements by Delcy Rodríguez
January 4, 2026
The Arrival of Nicolas Maduro in New York
January 4, 2026
Venezuela Supreme Court’s Provisional Presidency Decision
January 4, 2026
Details on the Course of Operation Absolute Resolve
January 4, 2026
Lifting of Restrictions on Caribbean Airspace
January 5, 2026
Developments as of January 4–5, 2026
January 5, 2026
Cuban Casualties in the United States’ Military Intervention in Venezuela
January 5, 2026
The Court Appearance of Maduro and Cilia Flores
January 5, 2026
Delcy Rodríguez as Acting President
January 5, 2026
Nicolas Maduro’s First Court Appearance in New York
January 6, 2026
Delcy Rodríguez Assumes Office as Interim President of Venezuela
January 6, 2026
Emergency Meeting of the United Nations Security Council
January 6, 2026
Switzerland’s Financial Measures
January 8, 2026
Developments Between Venezuela and the United States on January 7–8
January 8, 2026
Step in the U.S. Senate Regarding Military Authority Over Venezuela (January 8)
January 8, 2026
Protests in Caracas in Support of Maduro (January 9)
January 8, 2026
Release of Political Prisoners (January 9)
January 8, 2026
U.S. President Trump’s Statements on Venezuela and Oil (January 9)
January 8, 2026
Statements by Acting President Delcy Rodriguez (January 9)
January 8, 2026
Change in Military Planning and Energy Cooperation Announcement (January 9)
January 8, 2026
U.S. Delegation’s Visit to Caracas and Embassy Assessment (January 9)
January 8, 2026
Meetings with Oil Companies at the White House (January 10)
January 8, 2026
Venezuelan Statement on Diplomatic Dialogue (January 10)