Reports emerged yesterday of explosions and unusual activity within Venezuela, followed by a statement from the United States administration confirming a military operation had taken place. The operation resulted in the apprehension of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, who have been transported outside of Venezuela to face potential legal proceedings in the United States.
President Donald Trump, in a press conference, stated that US armed forces, under his direct instruction, executed an “exceptional” military operation in Caracas. He described the use of air and naval power as “stunning and unprecedented since World War II.”
Trump emphasized that the objective was to bring Maduro to justice, highlighting the operation as a demonstration of American power and military efficiency. He indicated the operation was conducted with precision, similar to past operations targeting high-value individuals and sensitive locations. According to Trump, Venezuelan military capabilities were unable to effectively counter the operation, and Maduro’s apprehension occurred “under the cover of darkness” without any US casualties.
Simultaneous with the press conference, Trump posted on his Truth Social platform an image purportedly showing President Maduro, blindfolded and with his hands restrained, aboard a US naval vessel. The post stated Nicolas Maduro was on the USS Iwo Jima and that he and his wife would face justice in an American court.
Trump further stated that the United States would oversee the administration of Venezuela during an interim period until conditions are suitable for a fair transitional process. He emphasized that Washington would not accept a return to the status quo. He also affirmed that the US would remain involved in Venezuelan affairs to ensure a secure political transition that serves the interests of the Venezuelan people.
Moreover, Trump announced that major American companies would be moving into Venezuela.
