Nicholas Maduro.
US President Donald Trump announced that American forces have captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, following what he described as a “large-scale military strike” on Venezuela early Saturday.
Trump said the couple had been flown out of the country and promised more details at a press conference from his Mar-a-Lago residence later in the day.
According to Trump’s statement, the operation was conducted in conjunction with US law enforcement after months of rising tensions between Washington and Caracas.
Reports indicate at least seven explosions in the Venezuelan capital, Caracas, in the early morning, while low-flying aircraft were observed over the city.
Republican Senator Mike Lee said US Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed that Maduro was arrested by US personnel to face criminal charges in the United States, including narco-terrorism and drug trafficking.
Officials added that further military operations in Venezuela were unlikely now that Maduro was in US custody.
The Venezuelan government rejected the US account and demanded “proof of life” for its president and first lady. Vice President Delcy Rodríguez said Caracas had no confirmed information on Maduro’s whereabouts and described the situation as deeply troubling.
Authorities earlier declared a state of emergency following the strikes.
The strikes targeted military and strategic sites in Caracas and surrounding regions, causing panic among civilians.
Witnesses reported blasts and widespread alarm in residential areas. International reactions are emerging, with several governments condemning the US action as a violation of Venezuela’s sovereignty.
The situation remains fluid as governments and agencies continue to confirm details.