In a dramatic escalation of tensions, former US President Donald Trump has declared that the United States will take direct control of Venezuela following what he described as a 'dark and deadly' military strike. The announcement came after Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, were reportedly seized from their bedroom by American special forces.
The Nighttime Raid and Capture
According to reports from CBS News, the operation unfolded in the early hours as the couple slept in their heavily-secured residence on an army base. Sources state that Delta Force troops dragged the president and his wife from their bedroom and transported them to a waiting US military helicopter.
Trump, speaking to Fox and Friends, confirmed the pair were flown to the USS Iwo Jima, a warship deployed in the Caribbean Sea. He stated they are now en route to the United States to face criminal charges. Officials have indicated both Maduro and Flores are charged with offences related to narco-terrorism.
Trump's Justification and Account of the Operation
Addressing the media at a press conference on 3 January 2026, Trump outlined the US's immediate plans. "We're going to run the country until such time as we can do a safe, proper and judicious transition," he asserted. The former president framed the intervention as a mission for "peace, liberty and justice for the great people of Venezuela," including those living abroad who wish to return home.
He revealed the mission, originally planned four days prior, was delayed due to adverse weather conditions. On the outcome, Trump remarked, "I think we had nobody killed," but noted that "a couple of guys were hit" though they are expected to recover.
Fallout and Venezuelan Response
The capital city, Caracas, was rocked by numerous explosions overnight, with multiple strikes recorded across the metropolitan area. Venezuela's defence minister accused US forces of hitting civilian districts and vowed the nation would resist the aggression.
In response to the unprecedented incursion, the Venezuelan government has declared a state of emergency and deployed its national army onto the streets. The situation remains highly volatile, marking a severe downturn in relations between Washington and Caracas.
This story is developing rapidly, with further updates expected as the political and humanitarian crisis unfolds.
