At a Glance
- Maduro captured in night operation by US forces.
- Trump hailed the strike as a “brilliant operation.”
- EU, France, Russia, China condemn the action as a violation of international law.
Why it matters: The seizure reshapes power in Venezuela and sparks debate over US interventionism.
On January 3, 2026, US forces carried out a covert night raid that seized Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, a move that President Donald Trump celebrated as a triumph of American military power. The operation has drawn sharp criticism from European allies, Russia, and China, who see it as a breach of international law. Meanwhile, the White House faces urgent questions about how to fill the leadership void and stabilize a country already crippled by hyperinflation and shortages.
Operation Details and Trump’s Praise
Trump announced the raid shortly after US aircraft cleared Venezuelan airspace, calling it a “brilliant operation.” He noted that some troops were injured but none killed, and said the strike demonstrated that the US could project force anywhere, anytime.
- President Trump declared:
> “It was a brilliant operation, actually.”
- Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth praised the forces, saying:
> “Our adversaries remain on notice: America can project our will anywhere, anytime.”
- Sen. Ruben Gallego criticized the move, calling it “illegal” and “embarrassing.”
International Reactions
European leaders expressed concern, with EU Commission President António Costa warning that the operation violated international law. France’s Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot said it infringed the non-use of force principle, while Russia and China condemned it as an act of armed aggression.
| Country | Reaction |
|---|---|
| EU | Calls for restraint, upholds international law |
| France | States operation infringes non-use of force |
| Russia | Declares US act of armed aggression |
| China | Condemns violation of sovereignty |
These condemnations come as the US simultaneously urges allies to respect sovereignty while the White House faces internal debate over future involvement in Venezuela.
Key Takeaways
- Maduro’s capture marks a rare US military intervention in a sovereign nation.
- Global leaders warn that the action violates international law and threatens regional stability.
- The White House must decide who will lead Venezuela and how to prevent a power vacuum.
The operation has set a new precedent for US military engagement, but its long-term effects on Venezuela and international norms remain uncertain.
