US President Donald Trump has declared that Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, have been captured and flown out of Venezuela following a “large scale” US military strike on the country.
In a post on Truth Social early on January 3, 2026, Trump stated: “The United States of America has successfully carried out a large scale strike against Venezuela and its leader, President Nicolas Maduro, who has been, along with his wife, captured and flown out of the Country.
“This operation was done in conjunction with U.S. Law Enforcement. Details to follow. There will be a News Conference today at 11 A.M., at Mar-a-Lago. Thank you for your attention to this matter! President DONALD J. TRUMP.”
The announcement came hours after multiple explosions rocked Caracas and other areas, including military installations such as Fuerte Tiuna and La Carlota airbase.
Witnesses reported low-flying aircraft, columns of smoke, and power outages in parts of the capital.
Venezuela’s government accused the United States of “military aggression,” declaring a national emergency and calling for public mobilization against what it described as an attempt to seize the country’s oil and mineral resources.
The operation marks a dramatic escalation in months of US pressure on Maduro, whom Washington has accused of narco-terrorism and illegitimate rule.
It follows a series of prior airstrikes on alleged drug-trafficking vessels and facilities linked to Venezuela.
International reactions poured in swiftly, with allies of Venezuela condemning the action, while details on casualties, the exact nature of the strikes, and Maduro’s current location remain unconfirmed pending further official statements.
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Trump is scheduled to hold a press conference at his Mar-a-Lago residence later today to provide additional information.