January 3, 2026 (Caracas & Washington) — The United States launched a series of military strikes against Venezuela early Saturday, and US President Donald Trump announced that Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, were captured and flown out of the country, according to official US statements.

In a post on the social media platform Truth Social, Trump described the operation as a “successful large-scale strike,” stating that Maduro and Flores were detained in coordination with US law enforcement and removed from Venezuelan territory.

The military action — reportedly involving airstrikes and ground elements around Caracas and other areas — appears to have been executed under the name Operation Absolute Resolve, with explosions heard near key military sites such as Fuerte Tiuna and La Carlota airbase.

What Has Happened So Far

Explosions and Military Action in Caracas

In the early hours around 2:00 a.m. local time, multiple explosions and reports of aircraft over Caracas were shared by residents and local sources. Venezuelan authorities have accused the United States of carrying out attacks against both military and civilian targets.

Maduro and First Lady

President Trump’s announcement claimed that Maduro and his wife have been captured and taken out of Venezuela, but details regarding their exact location or custody status remain unverified by independent sources at this time. Venezuelan Vice President Delcy Rodríguez stated that the government does not know their whereabouts and is demanding proof of life for both.

Venezuela’s Government Response

The Venezuelan government has condemned the strikes as an “imperialist attack” and an act of aggression against national sovereignty, ordering the deployment of defense forces and declaring states of emergency aimed at responding to the unfolding events.

On state television, authorities have shown scenes of soldiers deploying and government meetings to address security, while Maduro’s vice president has insisted the official leadership remains intact and called on the US to prove Maduro is alive.

International Reaction

Leaders around the world have reacted strongly:

• Russia described the US military strikes as “deeply concerning” and condemned the operation.
• Latin American nations expressed alarm over regional stability and violations of sovereignty.
• Some Western officials have criticized the legality of the strikes under international law.

These reactions underscore broader global concerns over unilateral military actions without United Nations authorization.

What Comes Next

At this early stage, many questions remain:

• Independent verification of President Maduro’s capture and current location is still lacking, and the Venezuelan government’s demand for proof of life highlights this uncertainty.
• The stability of Venezuela’s government and leadership structure is unresolved, with some constitutional officials asserting authority amid conflicting claims.
• Potential repercussions for regional security, international law, and diplomatic relations are already intensifying.

International news agencies and governments are likely to update this rapidly evolving situation throughout the day.

Summary of Key Facts So Far

• US military strikes reportedly hit Caracas and other Venezuelan sites.
• Donald Trump claims Maduro and his wife have been captured and removed from Venezuela.
• Venezuelan officials say they lack proof of Maduro’s whereabouts and condemn the strikes.
• Global leaders are widely condemning or questioning the US action.