U.S. military strikes escalate Venezuela crisis, Maduro captured in NY
QAMISHLI, Syria (North Press) – Venezuela has erupted into one of Latin America’s most dramatic geopolitical flashpoints after a major United States military operation early on Jan. 3 saw airstrikes on Venezuelan targets and the reported capture of President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores.
According to U.S. officials, the strikes targeted key military infrastructure in Caracas and other regions, in what Washington described as operations against “narco-terrorism” and to counter alleged illicit activities linked to the Maduro government.
Explosions were heard across the capital, and low-flying aircraft were reported over strategic facilities, including the Fuerte Tiuna military complex.
The U.S. confirmed Maduro was taken into custody and transported to New York, where he is expected to face federal charges.
U.S. President Donald Trump declared that the United States would “run” the country temporarily and facilitate a transition of power — a claim fiercely denied by Venezuelan authorities and seen as a direct challenge to national sovereignty.
The unprecedented action has triggered a polarized global reaction. Several governments, including China, Russia, Iran, and Mexico, condemned the U.S. strikes as violations of international law, while some Western and regional leaders expressed cautious support for measures aimed at ending Maduro’s contested rule.
The U.N. Security Council is set to review the crisis amid rising concerns over legality, regional stability, and humanitarian impacts.
Venezuela has been embroiled in political turmoil since disputed elections in July 2024, which were widely criticized by international observers as unfair, deepening an ongoing legitimacy crisis and sparking protests.
The country also faces a severe humanitarian and economic emergency, with food and medicine shortages and waves of migration continuing to strain the region.