Web Desk (MNN); US President Donald Trump on Saturday claimed that American forces have captured Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro following what he described as a “large-scale military strike” against Venezuela.
In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump said that the operation led to the arrest of Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, who were allegedly flown out of the country. He said the mission was conducted in coordination with US law enforcement agencies and announced that he would address the media at his Mar-a-Lago residence in Florida later in the day.
In subsequent interviews, Trump stated that Maduro and his wife were transferred to a US naval ship and would be taken to New York, where they face indictments. He said the operation involved elite special forces, multiple helicopters and complex planning, adding that no American personnel were killed, though a few were injured.
Trump praised the mission as highly successful and claimed Maduro had attempted to negotiate at the end, which he rejected. He also said the operation had been delayed earlier due to unfavorable weather conditions.
Following the strikes, Venezuela demanded an emergency meeting of the United Nations Security Council, accusing the US of aggression and violation of international law. Venezuelan officials said they were unaware of Maduro’s whereabouts and demanded proof of life.
Venezuelan Defence Minister Vladimir Padrino López accused US forces of striking residential areas and warned of a nationwide military response. Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello said Venezuela would overcome the attacks.
Meanwhile, US officials said Maduro and his wife face multiple charges in New York, including narco-terrorism, drug trafficking and weapons-related offenses. Senior US leaders hailed the development as a turning point for Venezuela.
Explosions were reported across Caracas and other regions, prompting the Venezuelan government to declare a national emergency. Several Latin American leaders criticized the US action, warning of regional instability and a potential humanitarian crisis.
Analysts said the move could have significant political, legal and economic consequences, including possible volatility in global oil markets and backlash within the United States over the legality of the military action.
