What we know about a US strike that captured Venezuela’s Maduro and what comes next
January 3, 2026
The United States has conducted a swift military operation in Venezuela, capturing President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores. President Donald Trump announced that the U.S. will manage Venezuela until there can be a transition of power, utilizing its oil reserves for rebuilding. American officials say Maduro and Flores will face narco-terrorism charges in U.S. courts. The operation, which took place early Saturday, has left Venezuela in turmoil, with its leadership uncertain and details of casualties still emerging. Much is still unknown about how the U.S. ouster of Maduro will ricochet across the country and the region.