Key Facts
• On January 3, U.S. President Trump announced a large-scale attack on Venezuela.
• Maduro and his wife were reportedly detained and transferred abroad.
• Caracas experienced at least seven explosions and low-flying aircraft sounds early January 3.
• Venezuelan government condemned the attack as a serious military invasion.
• Casualty and damage details remain unconfirmed.
• Vice President Rodriguez stated Maduro’s whereabouts are unknown and demanded proof of his survival.
• Since September last year, the Trump administration increased pressure by targeting suspected drug trafficking vessels in the Caribbean.
Summary
The United States, under President Trump, conducted a significant military operation against Venezuela on January 3, resulting in the reported capture and overseas transfer of President Nicolás Maduro and his wife. The Venezuelan capital, Caracas, was shaken by multiple explosions and low-altitude aircraft activity. The Venezuelan government strongly condemned the attack as a grave military aggression, while casualty reports are still pending. Vice President Delcy Rodríguez expressed uncertainty about Maduro’s status and called on the U.S. to immediately confirm his and his wife’s survival. This action follows months of intensified U.S. pressure on the Maduro regime, including repeated strikes on vessels suspected of drug trafficking in the Caribbean since September 2025.
