On January 3, 2026, the United States executed a military operation that led to the capture of Nicolás Maduro, the Venezuelan leader accused of authoritarianism and ties to drug trafficking. This operation, termed Operation Absolute Resolve, involved over 150 aircraft and was characterized by the U.S. government as a significant display of military power, with no American casualties reported. President Donald Trump stated that the U.S. would temporarily govern Venezuela and control its oil reserves, a claim that has raised concerns regarding the legality and implications of such actions.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio clarified that the U.S. would not engage in day-to-day governance but would enforce an existing oil blockade on Venezuela. This blockade, which targets sanctioned oil tankers, is intended to leverage policy changes in the country. Rubio emphasized that the U.S. aims to ensure that the oil industry benefits the Venezuelan people and to combat drug trafficking.

The operation has drawn parallels to past U.S. interventions in Iraq and Afghanistan, prompting criticism from various political factions, including some within Trump's own party. Critics have expressed concern that such actions could lead to prolonged foreign intervention or failed nation-building efforts.

Following Maduro's capture, he was transported to the U.S. and is expected to appear in federal court. The U.S. government does not recognize Maduro as the legitimate leader of Venezuela, which has been described as an autocratic regime. The operation has been framed as part of a broader strategy to address drug trafficking and restore stability in the region, although the humanitarian implications of such military actions remain a point of contention.

In Venezuela, the atmosphere has been tense, with reports of a quiet capital and closed businesses following the military operation. The vice president of Venezuela has demanded Maduro's release, asserting that he is the rightful leader, which sets the stage for potential conflict over the country's governance.

Internationally, the operation has faced widespread condemnation. Leaders from several Latin American countries, including Spain, Brazil, and Colombia, have criticized the U.S. actions as a violation of international law and a dangerous precedent for regional stability. The European Union has also expressed concerns, emphasizing the need for a peaceful resolution that respects the will of the Venezuelan people.

Protests erupted globally in response to the U.S. military intervention, with demonstrators in cities like Chicago and Washington, D.C., condemning the actions as imperialistic and lacking Congressional approval. The situation remains fluid, with ongoing discussions about the future governance of Venezuela and the implications for regional security and humanitarian conditions.