The United States conducted military strikes in Venezuela early Saturday, reportedly capturing President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, according to a post on former President Donald Trump’s social media platform. The operation, described as a “large-scale strike,” has prompted international condemnation and a heightened state of alert within Venezuela, with the deployment of all Venezuelan armed forces. This dramatic escalation marks a significant shift in U.S. policy toward Venezuela and raises concerns about regional stability.
US Strikes in Venezuela: A Developing Situation
The strikes, which began in the early hours of Saturday morning, targeted military installations in and around Caracas, including the La Carlota airfield and the Fuerte Tiuna military base. Residents reported hearing at least seven explosions. Trump stated that Maduro and his wife were “captured and flown out of the country” to face criminal charges in the United States, specifically related to narco-terrorism conspiracy charges filed in 2020. A news conference is scheduled for later today to provide further details.
International Reactions to the Venezuela Operation
The US action has drawn swift and critical responses from several nations. Russia’s Foreign Ministry labeled the strikes an “act of armed aggression,” while Iran strongly condemned the operation as a violation of Venezuela’s sovereignty. Meanwhile, Colombian President Gustavo Petro deployed troops to the Venezuelan border, describing Washington’s actions as an “assault on the sovereignty” of Latin America and warning of a potential humanitarian crisis. Despite the deployment, Petro has proposed a resolution through dialogue.
Venezuela’s Response and Security Measures
Venezuela’s Vice President Delcy Rodríguez demanded proof of life for Maduro and his wife, stating that Caracas does not know their whereabouts. Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino Lopez announced a “massive deployment of all land, air, naval, riverine and missile capabilities” for comprehensive defense, accusing the US of striking residential areas. The Venezuelan government has characterized the strikes as an “imperialist attack” and urged citizens to mobilize.
The situation in Caracas appears to have calmed down following the initial strikes, although authorities have established checkpoints and deployed security personnel throughout the city, according to residents who spoke to Euronews. However, the overall security situation remains fluid and unpredictable.
Background and Escalation of US-Venezuela Tensions
The strikes represent a significant escalation of long-standing tensions between the US and Venezuela. The Trump administration has consistently pressured Maduro’s government, imposing sanctions and accusing him of drug trafficking and undermining democracy. The CIA was reportedly behind a drone strike last week at a docking area believed to have been used by Venezuelan drug cartels, marking the first known direct operation on Venezuelan soil. Trump had previously threatened military action against Venezuela, particularly targeting alleged drug production facilities. The political instability in Venezuela has been a growing concern for regional security for years.
The situation remains highly volatile. Further developments are expected following Trump’s scheduled news conference. Observers will be closely watching for any further military movements, the response from the Venezuelan military, and the potential for diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the crisis. Stay tuned for updates as this story develops.
