US Strikes Lead to Capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro
The US has captured Venezuela's President Nicolás Maduro after a large scale strike on the South American country, US President Donald Trump has said. Trump announced that Maduro and his wife were flown out of the country in a military operation conducted in conjunction with US law enforcement.
Explosions were reported across Venezuela's capital, Caracas, in the early hours of Saturday morning, affecting military bases and community areas alike. The Venezuelan government has demanded proof of Maduro's wellbeing and declared a national emergency.
Maduro's capture follows rising tensions between the US and Venezuela, particularly regarding drug trafficking operations. The US has claimed Maduro is involved in these illicit activities and has labelled him an illegitimate leader.
Details of Maduro's Capture
Information surrounding the details of Maduro's capture remains limited. Trump did not elaborate on the nature of the detainment or the location where Maduro has been taken.
The operation involved Delta Force, a premier US special forces unit known for counter-terrorism missions, according to CBS News.
A news conference is expected later today from Trump at Mar-a-Lago, where additional information regarding the operation may be revealed.
Overview of the Strikes
At approximately 02:00 local time (06:00 GMT), Caracas was rocked by loud explosions with smoke visible throughout the city. Targets included military installations such as La Carlota airfield and the Fuerte Tiuna military base, while power outages affected neighboring communities. Videos of the explosions surfaced on social media but have yet to be verified.
The Venezuelan government confirmed damage to civilian areas and is currently compiling casualty information.
Venezuela's Reaction
Venezuelan officials, including Vice-President Delcy Rodríguez, have expressed uncertainty regarding Maduro's whereabouts, demanding immediate proof of life. Defence Minister Vladimir Padrino López condemned the strikes, citing civilian impact, while the government labeled the military action a severe aggression against the nation.
Trump's Response
Following the explosions, the White House initially refrained from commenting. However, Trump later confirmed via his Truth Social account, stating, The United States of America has successfully carried out a large scale strike against Venezuela and its leader, President Nicolás Maduro, who has been, along with his wife, captured and flown out of the Country. This operation was done in conjunction with US Law Enforcement. Details to follow.
Background on Nicolás Maduro
Nicolás Maduro, who succeeded Hugo Chávez in 2013, has faced internal and external pressures regarding his leadership and Venezuela's dire economic situation. His government has been accused of human rights violations, leading to an influx of migrants to the US and abroad. Trump has previously offered a $50 million reward for information leading to Maduro's arrest, amidst accusations of drug-trafficking connections involving Venezuelan crime syndicates.
