Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro was captured by US forces during a dramatic overnight military operation on January 3, 2026. While the jaw-dropping raid removed one of Latin America’s most notorious strongmen, Venezuela’s authoritarian system is still in place. The country and region now face deep uncertainty, with risks of greater repression, instability, and prolonged crisis.
What Happened: US Captures Nicolás Maduro in Overnight Raid
In the early hours of January 3, the United States launched air and special forces strikes across Caracas and nearby states, targeting military bases, airports, and government sites. According to US officials, elite American forces seized Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, from their residence and flew them out of the country.
Venezuela’s government has not confirmed Maduro’s capture, but officials admit they have lost contact with him and are demanding proof that he is alive.
US Pres
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