> At a Glance
> – President Trump announced U.S. forces launched “large-scale strikes” across Venezuela early Saturday
> – Claims Nicolás Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores have been captured and flown out
> – Venezuelan government declares national emergency, accuses U.S. of targeting oil and mineral resources
> – Why it matters: The operation marks a dramatic escalation in U.S.-Venezuela tensions with unclear regional fallout
President Trump confirmed via Truth Social that U.S. forces conducted overnight strikes on Venezuelan military sites while claiming the detention of President Maduro and his wife.
Operation Details
The strikes hit Caracas, the Fuerte Tiuna army base, La Carlota airbase, El Volcán and La Guaira Port, according to opposition spokesman David Smolansky. Footage shows explosions and smoke as residents fled the areas.
Trump stated the operation was carried out “in conjunction with U.S. Law Enforcement” and promised an 11 a.m. news conference at Mar-a-Lago for further details.
U.S. and Venezuelan Responses
Key accusations from Trump:
- Drug trafficking
- Forcing migration to the U.S.
- Using oil money to fund crimes
Venezuelan government response:
- Declared national emergency
- Accused U.S. of trying to “seize Venezuela’s strategic resources”
- Urged “all social and political forces” to activate mobilization plans
Broader Context
Since September, the U.S. has launched 30 strikes in the Pacific and Caribbean, killing more than 110 people and seizing two sanctioned oil tankers, per BBC reporting.
Maduro had recently told state TV he was open to talks with Washington on drugs, oil and migration issues.
Key Takeaways
- First reported U.S. land strikes in Venezuela under Trump
- Venezuelan military infrastructure targeted in multiple locations
- Maduro’s status and whereabouts remain unconfirmed beyond Trump’s claim
- Region on high alert as both nations mobilize following the operation
