U.S. Launches Strikes in Venezuela, Captures President Maduro and His Wife

Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores. (AP)

TWLN Staff Reporter | The Weekly Ledger News | National News

CARACAS, Venezuela — The United States conducted a rapid overnight operation in Venezuela that resulted in the capture and removal of President Nicolás Maduro and his wife from the country following a series of strikes, according to U.S. and Venezuelan officials. President Donald Trump said the U.S. is “now deciding next steps for Venezuela,” adding that Washington will remain closely involved.

Photo courtesy of AP Photo/Matias Delacroix.

The brief but intense operation shook Caracas, where multiple explosions and low-flying aircraft were reported. Venezuelan officials accused the U.S. of an “imperialist attack” on civilian and military targets and urged supporters into the streets. Vice President Delcy Rodríguez said casualties included civilians and members of the military but did not provide numbers.

Smoke raises at La Carlota airport after explosions and low-flying aircraft were heard in Caracas, Venezuela, Saturday, Jan. 3, 2026. (AP Photo/Matias Delacroix)

U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi said Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, will face criminal charges in New York. Maduro and several senior officials were previously indicted in 2020 on narcoterrorism conspiracy charges.

With Maduro’s whereabouts unclear, Rodríguez demanded proof of life and said emergency measures had been ordered nationwide. Under Venezuelan law, she would assume power in the president’s absence, though no formal transfer had been confirmed.

The operation followed months of escalating U.S. pressure and maritime actions targeting alleged narcotics trafficking networks. Reaction from abroad was swift, with some governments condemning the strikes and others welcoming the move as a turning point.

The situation in Venezuela remains fluid as both nations signal additional developments may follow.

This is a developing story. The Weekly Ledger News will continue to monitor updates closely and provide new information as it becomes available.

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