In a stunning escalation of U.S. foreign policy, American special forces executed a high-risk operation in Caracas, Venezuela, resulting in the capture of President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, First Lady Cilia Flores. The operation, announced by President Donald Trump, marks one of the most direct U.S. military interventions in Latin America in decades.
The Operation
Early reports indicate that elite U.S. units, including Delta Force operators, conducted a 90-minute strike targeting key military sites in the Venezuelan capital. Maduro and Flores were extracted from the country and are now in U.S. custody, though their precise location has not been disclosed. President Trump described the mission as “incredible and highly successful” in a post on Truth Social, with a follow-up press conference scheduled at Mar-a-Lago.
President Donald Trump addressing the nation from Mar-a-Lago.
U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi praised the operation, stating that the couple would “face the full wrath of American justice on American soil in American courts.” She thanked President Trump for his leadership and commended the military personnel involved.
The Charges
Maduro has been under indictment since 2020 in the Southern District of New York on charges including narco-terrorism conspiracy, cocaine importation conspiracy, and possession of machine guns and destructive devices. The allegations center on claims that Maduro led the “Cartel of the Suns,” a drug-trafficking organization involving high-ranking Venezuelan officials. Flores has faced related scrutiny for corruption and support of the regime.
Venezuelan Reaction
Venezuelan officials condemned the action as an “imperialist aggression.” Vice President Delcy Rodríguez demanded proof of life for Maduro and Flores, while Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino and Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello called for national resistance. State media reported civilian and military casualties from the strikes, and streets in Caracas remained tense but largely calm.
International Response
The operation has drawn sharp criticism from Venezuela’s allies, including Russia, Cuba, Iran, and Mexico, with accusations of sovereignty violation and motives tied to Venezuela’s oil reserves. The United Kingdom clarified it had no involvement. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that no further U.S. military action in Venezuela is planned.
Implications
The capture comes amid longstanding U.S. concerns over Venezuela’s alleged role in international drug trafficking and following Maduro’s disputed 2024 reelection. Analysts suggest the event could usher in a political transition in Venezuela while straining regional relations and impacting global oil markets.
The situation remains fluid, with potential for significant diplomatic fallout in the coming days.