U.S. President Donald Trump has announced the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, following a military operation early Saturday morning. Both were reportedly flown out of Venezuela by U.S. forces.
In a statement posted on his Truth Social account, President Trump confirmed the operation’s success:
“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 conducted in conjunction with U.S. law enforcement. Details to follow.”
The operation began in the early hours of Saturday in Caracas, Venezuela’s capital. Residents and multiple sources reported heavy bombing and low-flying military aircraft during the assault. The Venezuelan government swiftly declared a state of emergency, stating it was under attack by the United States and affirming its right to defend itself.
Video footage from various locations in Venezuela showed multiple targets being struck by U.S. forces, with several buildings and facilities engulfed in flames.
This escalation follows recent U.S. strikes weeks earlier against suspected drug-carrying vessels from Venezuela. The U.S. has long accused Maduro of ties to drug cartels and has pushed for his removal from power, labeling him an illegitimate leader.
Updates to follow as this story develops.
