The United States has reported the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, with their plane landing in New York City. This development follows a significant U.S. operation in Caracas, where the couple was indicted in New York on charges related to a narco-terrorism conspiracy and election manipulation in Venezuela. The U.S. government’s direct involvement in Latin America is the most pronounced in decades. In response, Venezuela’s government has criticized the U.S. as an imperialist force and demanded Maduro’s release, leading to the cancellation of numerous flights in the region.
President Donald Trump announced during a press conference that the U.S. would assume control of Venezuela temporarily following the capture of Maduro. Despite the operation, there are no immediate signs of U.S. governance in the country. The couple was apprehended at their residence within a military installation in Caracas, according to Venezuelan ruling party leader Nahum Fernández. Maduro and his wife were subsequently taken to New York to face prosecution.
The U.S. operation involved multiple explosions and aircraft activity in Caracas, prompting accusations from the Venezuelan government of an attack on civilian and military sites. The U.S. officials stressed that the mission was successful, with no fatalities among U.S. forces involved. The FAA issued flight restrictions in the region due to ongoing military activities. The situation remains tense as various international leaders monitor the unfolding events closely.