CARACAS/NEW YORK
In a dramatic escalation of international tensions, US President Donald Trump announced on Saturday, January 3, 2026, the capture of Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro and First Lady Cilia Flores following a massive overnight military operation.
The offensive, which involved widespread airstrikes across Caracas and the states of Miranda, Aragua, and La Guaira, resulted in the seizure of Maduro from a fortified presidential palace. Trump later shared a striking image on Truth Social showing Maduro blindfolded and handcuffed aboard the USS Iwo Jima.
Key Developments:
Capture and Transfer: Maduro and his wife are currently en route to New York on a US Navy warship to face federal charges, including narco-terrorism and drug trafficking.
"Live" Operation: In a Fox News interview, Trump revealed he watched the capture in real-time via mission feeds, comparing the experience to "watching a television show".
The Oil Factor: The President stated that the U.S. will now be "strongly involved" in Venezuela's oil industry, though he noted that oil exports to China would continue.
Uncertain Future: When asked about the next leader of Venezuela—specifically regarding opposition figure María Corina Machado—Trump remained non-committal, stating he is "still deciding on the future".
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First image of Nicolás Maduro in US custody |
International Reaction
While Trump supporters and several regional leaders celebrated the move as a blow to "narco-terrorism," the Venezuelan government has denounced the operation as a "vile and cowardly" act of imperialist aggression, declaring a national state of emergency.
Unprecedented move: Trump announces Maduro’s capture in Caracas. Taken to NY for narco-terrorism charges. US eyes Venezuela’s oil while the future of leadership remains uncertain. #News
ResponderExcluirIndeed. This shift redefines global oil markets and geopolitical power. The key now is whether Venezuela can achieve stability or if leadership uncertainty will spark further unrest. #Update
ExcluirHow might Venezuela’s instability affect Europe’s energy security and its reliance on alternative suppliers?
ResponderExcluirVenezuela’s instability, particularly following the recent capture of Nicolás Maduro in January 2026, presents a multi-layered challenge to Europe’s energy security. While Venezuela is not currently a primary direct supplier to Europe, its instability affects the continent through global price volatility, heavy crude supply chains, and the strategic shift toward alternative partners
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