Major Operation Leads to Capture of Venezuelan President Maduro

Mon Jan 05 2026 03:12:30 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

In a groundbreaking military operation, Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife have been captured by the US forces, leading to significant geopolitical tensions.

US President Donald Trump announced the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro in a military strike that involved the elite Delta Force. The operation included explosions in Caracas and various locations across Venezuela. Maduro and his wife have been charged with serious drug-related offenses in the US. The Venezuelan government has demanded proof of life for Maduro as it declares a national emergency in response to the military actions.

Major Operation Leads to Capture of Venezuelan President Maduro

5 minutes ago

André Rhoden-Pauland

BBC Verify

Venezuela's President Nicolas Maduro and First Lady Cilia Flores have been captured

Reuters — Venezuela's President Nicolas Maduro and First Lady Cilia Flores have been captured

In an extraordinary military operation, the US has captured Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores. The operation was confirmed by US President Donald Trump, who stated it involved a large scale strike on Venezuela.

Trump revealed that Maduro and his wife were flown from the country as part of an operation alongside US law enforcement, with charges involving drug trafficking and weapons offenses filed against them in New York.

This operation was set against a backdrop of explosions reported in Caracas, especially around military bases, which triggered a declaration of national emergency by Venezuela's government, demanding proof of life for Maduro and asserting readiness to defend its territory.

The dramatic developments follow a prolonged strain in US-Venezuela relations, with accusations and military engagement escalating amid concerns over drug trafficking operations linked to the Venezuelan presidency.

Follow this significant story as more details emerge regarding the implications for Venezuela and international relations.