US President Donald Trump says American forces carried out a major US operation in Venezuela, arresting President Nicolás Maduro and his wife during raids in Caracas amid explosions, power outages, and sharply escalating tensions.
The United States has confirmed a large-scale US operation in Venezuela, with President Donald Trump claiming that American forces arrested Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, and transferred them to the country.
In a statement shared on social media, Trump said the operation was conducted “in conjunction with US law enforcement agencies,” describing it as a successful mission against Venezuela’s leadership. He added that further operational details would be shared during a press conference later.
Also Read: US confirms strikes in Venezuela after explosions in Caracas
According to Trump, the US operation in Venezuela went beyond airstrikes and involved a targeted arrest mission supported by American security and judicial agencies. He claimed Maduro and his wife were taken into custody and moved to an undisclosed location outside Venezuela.
The announcement followed a night of intense unrest in Venezuela’s capital, Caracas, where at least seven loud explosions were reported. Witnesses said low-flying aircraft were heard, while thick plumes of smoke rose across several districts, spreading panic among residents.
Foreign media reported that southern Caracas, near a major military base, suffered a widespread power outage, leaving large areas without electricity. Authorities urged citizens to remain indoors as security forces tightened control amid fears of further escalation.
The Venezuelan government responded by declaring a state of emergency, calling the US action a “grave military aggression.” Officials accused Washington of attempting to overthrow the government, while urging political and social forces to unite against external pressure.
Also Read: Drone attack allegations on Putin residence escalate tensions
Analysts say the US operation in Venezuela appears to be a hybrid action combining military force with law enforcement objectives. Maduro has previously been indicted by US authorities on charges related to narcotics trafficking, allegations his government has repeatedly denied.
If confirmed, the arrest would mark the first time in decades that a sitting foreign president has allegedly been captured by US forces on home soil, drawing comparisons to the 1990 US invasion of Panama that led to the arrest of Manuel Noriega.
Trump has announced he will hold a detailed news conference at his Mar-a-Lago residence to outline the objectives, execution, and outcomes of the Venezuela operation, as the situation in Caracas remains volatile and unclear.
