In a dramatic escalation of international tensions, United States military forces have executed a precision operation in Caracas, resulting in the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and First Lady Cilia Flores. The operation, conducted approximately at 2 AM local time, involved elite units including the Army’s Delta Force targeting a heavily fortified compound.
President Donald Trump confirmed the development during a Florida press conference, announcing that both detainees are currently aboard the USS Iwo Jima amphibious assault vessel in the Caribbean Sea. They are scheduled for transport to New York to face narcotics trafficking charges in federal court.
The US administration has declared its intention to administer Venezuela during a transitional period. Trump stated, “The US is going to run Venezuela until such time as we can do a safe, proper, and judicious transition,” though specific details regarding the transitional governance structure remain undefined.
Following Maduro’s capture, Vice President Delcy Rodriguez was reportedly sworn in as president and has engaged in discussions with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. However, Trump expressed skepticism about long-term roles for any members of the current administration, including Rodriguez.
The administration also cast doubt on opposition leader Maria Corina Machado’s potential leadership, citing insufficient domestic support. Trump indicated that interim governance would be directed by officials including Rubio and other advisors.
General Dan Caine, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, confirmed that US forces remain on high alert throughout the Caribbean region. The operation reportedly involved months of coordination between military intelligence and agencies including the CIA.
The geopolitical implications extend throughout the region, with recent military cooperation between US forces and Trinidad and Tobago including joint exercises, radar installations at ANR Robinson International Airport, and transit flight agreements—all previously characterized as counter-narcotics measures.