The United States made a strategic move by arresting Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Celia Flores, on a military mission. President Donald Trump announced this essential step, prioritizing the safety of American citizens. The pivotal event occurred on January 3, 2026, during a major military operation in Caracas.
This operation was labeled as 'Operation Absolute Justice.' Maduro has faced allegations of drug trafficking and terrorism in the United States since 2020.
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Maduro had audaciously challenged America. In an old videotape issued by the White House, Maduro is seen boldly stating, 'Come get me! I’ll wait here in Miraflores. Don’t take long to arrive. Cowards!'
The White House released this video clip that juxtaposes Maduro's challenge with footage of the US operation—illustrating that America has now apprehended him.
Since 2013, Nicolás Maduro has been leading Venezuela after succeeding Hugo Chávez, who was known for his socialist policies. However, under Maduro's regime, Venezuela plunged into severe economic turmoil. The fall in oil prices, corruption, and misguided policies fueled skyrocketing inflation. Millions found themselves grappling with hunger and poverty, leading to a mass exodus from the nation.
The Maduro government faced accusations of human rights violations, with opponents imprisoned and electoral fraud rampant. Maduro claimed victory in the 2024 elections, yet the opposition decried it as fraudulent. The United States and many other countries do not recognize Maduro as the legitimate president.
In Trump's first term, the US recognized Juan Guaidó as interim president and levied sanctions on Maduro. In 2020, the US Department of Justice charged Maduro with narco-terrorism, offering a $15 million bounty.
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The Trump administration meticulously planned the operation for months. A CIA team infiltrated Venezuela, keeping a close watch on Maduro's activities. On the morning of January 3, American forces launched an assault involving over 150 aircraft. Special Forces raided Maduro’s compound.
An aircraft suffered an attack, yet no American soldier was harmed. Maduro and his wife were captured and taken aboard the USSS Iwo Jima. They are now detained in a New York jail, awaiting their court appearance. Trump asserted that Maduro had his chance to reform and pledged to protect Americans from every threat.
Celebrations erupted among Venezuelans in Caracas, Colombia, and the US, eager for their country's emancipation. However, some criticized this move. Certain liberal groups in the US branded it a war crime executed without Congress's approval.
Globally, China condemned it as an assault on a sovereign nation. Russia and Iran, Maduro's allies, expressed their discontent. Venezuela has announced an interim leader, but America claims the interim administration will govern the nation temporarily. On social media, the sentiment is that Trump has finally taught Maduro a lesson.
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Venezuela possesses the world's largest oil reserves, and this incident could lead to a 6-7% spike in oil prices. Trump warned that if Iran attacks the protesters, the US will respond, potentially escalating tensions in the Middle East. A new government is poised to take hold in Venezuela.
The US assures support for the Venezuelans, but whether stability or a new crisis will emerge remains uncertain. This event highlights the Trump administration's stern stance in foreign policy.
