US Says Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and Wife Were Captured During Military Operation

Reported Operation

U.S. officials said that early on Saturday, January 3, 2026, American forces carried out a large-scale military operation in Venezuela that resulted in the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores.

President Donald Trump confirmed the operation in public remarks, describing it as a coordinated action involving U.S. military units and federal law enforcement. Officials said the operation took place overnight.

US Says Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and Wife Were Captured During Military Operation

Activity Reported in Venezuela

Residents in Caracas and nearby regions reported loud explosions and heightened military activity around 2:00 a.m. local time. According to U.S. statements, multiple sites in the capital and surrounding states were targeted as part of the operation.

Authorities in the United States have not provided detailed information about the specific locations or facilities involved.

Custody and Legal Proceedings

U.S. officials stated that Maduro and Flores were flown out of Venezuela following their capture and are now in U.S. custody. They said the pair are expected to face legal proceedings in the United States.

Attorney General Pam Bondi announced that Maduro has been indicted in the Southern District of New York on charges including narco-terrorism conspiracy and cocaine importation conspiracy. Officials have not released detailed information regarding potential charges against Flores.

U.S. Military Status

President Trump said no U.S. service members were killed during the operation, though a small number of injuries were reported. No additional details about those injuries were provided.

International and Political Reactions

Venezuelan officials condemned the operation, with Vice President Delcy Rodríguez demanding proof that Maduro and Flores are alive and criticizing the action as a violation of national sovereignty. Defense officials in Venezuela also denounced the strikes.

International reactions were mixed. Governments including Russia, China, and Iran criticized the operation, while some leaders in Latin America expressed support. In the United States, Republican lawmakers praised the move, while some Democratic lawmakers questioned whether congressional authorization was required.

Ongoing Developments

President Trump is scheduled to hold a news conference later Saturday at Mar-a-Lago to provide additional information. U.S. and international officials said more details are expected as the situation develops.