On January 3, 2026, U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed that the United States had executed a military operation in Venezuela, resulting in the capture of President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores. The operation, characterized by extensive planning and coordination, involved airstrikes targeting military installations in Caracas and was described as unprecedented in recent U.S. history.

The U.S. government has accused Maduro of leading a 'narco-terrorist' regime, linking him to drug trafficking and corruption. Following the operation, Attorney General Pam Bondi announced that both Maduro and Flores would face charges in U.S. courts, including conspiracy to commit narco-terrorism.

The military action has drawn widespread condemnation from various international leaders, including those from Russia, Iran, and Latin American countries, who characterized it as a violation of Venezuela's sovereignty and a breach of international law. Critics within the U.S. Congress have also raised concerns about the legality of the operation, emphasizing the need for congressional authorization for military actions.

The operation has sparked celebrations among Venezuelan expatriates in South Florida, who view it as a potential turning point for their home country, while simultaneously raising fears of increased instability and violence in Venezuela. The U.S. has indicated plans to oversee the governance of Venezuela until a safe transition can be arranged, suggesting a prolonged military presence in the region.

As the situation unfolds, questions remain regarding the implications of U.S. intervention for both Venezuelan sovereignty and the humanitarian conditions faced by its citizens, many of whom have already suffered under Maduro's regime. The complexities of U.S. foreign policy in Latin America are underscored by this military action, which reflects a historical pattern of intervention that often prioritizes national interests over the welfare of local populations.