Shocking aerial photographs have exposed the extensive damage wrought by United States military strikes on Venezuela's capital, Caracas, during a dramatic overnight operation to capture the country's leader, Nicolas Maduro.
Targeting the Heart of Military Power
The assault focused on Fuerte Tiuna, the largest military complex in Venezuela, situated in the heart of Caracas. Images taken before and after the raid show several buildings completely obliterated by a single, powerful strike. The aftermath is depicted as vast, charred tracts of land with plumes of smoke continuing to rise from the ruins.
Civilian and Military Casualties Reported
A senior Venezuelan official speaking to The New York Times stated that the preliminary death toll from the strikes is believed to be around 40 people. The official confirmed that the casualties included both military personnel and civilians caught in the attack.
Former US President Donald Trump, who authorised the operation, described it as a 'large scale strike'. He stated its primary objective was the capture of Nicolas Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores. Both are now reported to be in custody in New York City, facing serious drug trafficking charges.
Maduro's New York Detention and Future of Venezuela
The detained Venezuelan leader and his wife are being held at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn, a facility notorious for its poor conditions. It has previously housed other high-profile inmates, including music mogul Sean 'Diddy' Combs.
In a controversial declaration, Trump announced that the United States would govern Venezuela 'indefinitely' in the interim. He dismissed the prospect of the country's popular opposition figure, Maria Corina Machado, assuming leadership, claiming she 'does not have the support' necessary to take the reins of power.
