CARACAS, VENEZUELA — SATURDAY, JANUARY 3, 2026 — The United States has carried out a major military operation in Venezuela, resulting in the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores, the U.S. government confirmed early Saturday morning.
In the early hours, explosions and aircraft were reported over Caracas and other parts of the country as U.S. forces struck key locations. The operation, ordered by President Donald Trump, targeted leadership and strategic positions in what the U.S. described as an effort to dismantle drug trafficking networks tied to the Maduro regime.
President Trump announced that Maduro and Flores were taken into U.S. custody and transported out of the country. U.S. officials say both will face criminal charges in American courts related to narcotics trafficking and conspiracy — charges Maduro has long denied.
Venezuela’s Reaction
The Venezuelan government quickly denounced the military action as an act of “military aggression” and a blatant violation of the nation’s sovereignty. Officials declared a state of emergency, called for civilian resistance, and urged supporters to mobilize against what they call an imperialist assault.
Scenes across Caracas showed smoke rising and residents reacting in shock and fear as news of the strikes spread.
International Response
WORLD leaders are reacting with alarm and condemnation. Several regional governments have criticized the U.S. operation, calling it a breach of international law and a dangerous escalation with wide-ranging consequences. Some foreign governments have demanded emergency talks and legal reviews of the U.S. action.
Background: Rising Tensions
Tensions between Washington and Caracas have been escalating for months. Throughout 2025, the United States increased pressure on Venezuela’s government, accusing it of harboring drug trafficking organizations and destabilizing the region. Sanctions, naval deployments, and targeted strikes on infrastructure in the Caribbean marked a steady buildup toward direct action.
What Happens Now
With Maduro in U.S. custody and the Venezuelan government in turmoil, Venezuela stands at a crossroads:
• Political vacuum: Questions loom over who will lead the country and how power will shift.
• Resistance potential: Venezuelan military and loyalist factions may choose to resist.
• Regional impact: Neighboring countries and international alliances are preparing for fallout that could reshape diplomatic and security relationships across Latin America and beyond.
This is an evolving and historic situation. Stay with First Source News as more details become available.
