VENEZUELA/ PHILIPSBURG:--- In a dramatic turn of events, Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and First Lady Cilia Flores were captured by US forces during a large-scale military operation early Saturday morning. The operation, announced by US President Donald Trump, involved airstrikes across Caracas and surrounding regions, leaving the Venezuelan capital reeling from explosions and widespread power outages.
The Operation
The strikes, which began around 2 a.m. local time, targeted key military installations, including Fuerte Tiuna, Venezuela's largest military complex. Eyewitnesses reported hearing low-flying aircraft and multiple explosions that shook the ground. Plumes of smoke and fire were seen rising from several locations, including La Carlota airport.
President Trump hailed the mission as a "brilliant operation," emphasizing the precision and planning involved. Maduro and Flores were reportedly flown to the United States, where Maduro is expected to face charges of narco-terrorism and drug trafficking. The US Department of Justice had previously placed a $50 million bounty on Maduro, accusing him of leading a criminal organization involved in cocaine smuggling.
Venezuelan Response
Venezuelan Vice President Delcy Rodríguez, who is constitutionally next in line for leadership, stated that the government is unaware of Maduro's whereabouts and demanded proof of life. Rodríguez condemned the US operation, calling it an act of aggression and a violation of Venezuela's sovereignty. Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino López vowed to resist what he described as an "invasion," while the government declared a state of emergency and urged citizens to defend the nation.
Regional and Global Reactions
The operation has drawn mixed reactions globally. Colombian President Gustavo Petro called for an emergency meeting of the United Nations and the Organization of American States, describing the strikes as an attack on Venezuela's sovereignty. Meanwhile, Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel denounced the operation as "state terrorism."
European leaders, including those from the European Union, have expressed concern over the escalation, calling for de-escalation and adherence to international law. Russia and China, key allies of Venezuela, have condemned the strikes, with Russia demanding immediate clarification and labeling the operation a violation of international norms.
Impact on the Region
The strikes have disrupted air travel across the Caribbean, with Princess Juliana International Airport in St. Maarten reporting delays and cancellations due to the active NOTAM (Notice to Airmen) affecting the region. Passengers are advised to check with their airlines for updates.
What’s Next?
The future of Venezuela remains uncertain. While the opposition sees this as an opportunity for democratic transition, the government insists on its resilience. The US has stated that no further military action is planned, but the situation on the ground remains tense.
As the world watches, the capture of Nicolás Maduro marks a pivotal moment in Venezuela's history, with potential implications for regional stability and international relations.
