WASHINGTON — US President Donald Trump on Monday claimed that American forces have captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, while launching what he described as “large-scale” military strikes against Venezuela.
In a brief statement, Trump said Maduro had been flown out of Venezuela, though he did not disclose where the Venezuelan leader was taken or provide details on how the operation was conducted. No visual evidence or official documentation was released to support the claim.
US defense and intelligence officials have so far declined to confirm operational details, and Trump’s assertion has not been independently verified by international observers or major global agencies.
Venezuela Declares National Emergency
The Venezuelan government reacted sharply, announcing a state of national emergency and accusing Washington of “military aggression” against a sovereign nation.
In a statement broadcast on state media, Caracas condemned what it called a violation of international law and warned of “serious consequences” for regional stability.
There has been no public appearance by Maduro since Trump’s remarks, and Venezuela’s military leadership has not confirmed his status.
Escalating US-Venezuela Tensions
Trump has repeatedly accused Maduro’s government of drug trafficking, human rights abuses, and harboring criminal networks, including the Tren de Aragua gang. The United States has long supported opposition figures and imposed sweeping sanctions on Venezuela.
If confirmed, Maduro’s capture would represent the most dramatic escalation in US-Venezuela relations in decades.
International reaction is still unfolding.
