U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed on January 3, 2026, that the United States conducted a large-scale military operation targeting Venezuela, including civilian and military sites in Greater Caracas and four states. Trump stated that Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro and his wife were captured and transported out of the country, marking a dramatic escalation in tensions between the two nations.
Venezuelan Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino López condemned the strikes as an unlawful attack on national sovereignty, urging citizens and armed forces to resist. In a televised address early on January 3, he declared, "Dignity and justice are with Venezuela. We will prevail against foreign aggression."
The operation, described by U.S. officials as a response to alleged threats against regional stability, has drawn international concern. Analysts warn of potential humanitarian repercussions and heightened geopolitical friction in Latin America. Further updates will follow as regional governments and global bodies react to the unprecedented development.
