3 weeks ago
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The United States says it has carried out a large-scale military strike in Venezuela and captured President Nicolás Maduro, according to a statement issued by U.S. President Donald J. Trump early Saturday.
In the statement, Trump said the operation was conducted in conjunction with U.S. law enforcement and resulted in the capture of Maduro and his wife, who were flown out of Venezuela.
“The United States of America has successfully carried out a large scale strike against Venezuela and its leader, President Nicolas Maduro, who has been, along with his wife, captured and flown out of the Country. This operation was done in conjunction with U.S. Law Enforcement. Details to follow,” the statement read.
Trump also announced that a news conference would be held later Saturday at 11 a.m. at Mar-a-Lago.
Another statement from U.S. Attorney General Pamela Bondi reads:
“Nicolas Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, have been indicted in the Southern District of New York. Nicolas Maduro has been charged with Narco-Terrorism Conspiracy, Cocaine Importation Conspiracy, Possession of Machineguns and Destructive Devices, and Conspiracy to Possess Machineguns and Destructive Devices against the United States.”
Bondi added that: “They will soon face the full wrath of American justice on American soil in American courts. On behalf of the entire U.S. DOJ, I would like to thank President Trump for having the courage to demand accountability on behalf of the American People, and a huge thank you to our brave military who conducted the incredible and highly successful mission to capture these two alleged international narco traffickers.”
Regional response
Regional leaders quickly responded as reports of military activity emerged.
Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar confirmed that the United States had begun military operations within Venezuelan territory but emphasized that Trinidad and Tobago is not involved.
“Earlier this morning, Saturday 3rd January 2026, the United States commenced military operations within the territory of Venezuela. Trinidad and Tobago is NOT a participant in any of these ongoing military operations. Trinidad and Tobago continues to maintain peaceful relations with the people of Venezuela,” Persad-Bissessar said.
The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) also issued a statement following an emergency meeting of regional leaders.
“The Conference of Heads of Government of CARICOM met very early on 3 January following reports of military action in Venezuela,” the statement said.
“CARICOM is actively monitoring the situation which is of grave concern to the Region with possible implications for neighbouring countries.”
CARICOM said it would continue to update the region as more information becomes available.
Details surrounding the U.S. operation, the circumstances of Maduro’s capture, and the broader implications for the region remain unclear as the situation continues to develop.
English (US) ·