Last Updated:January 03, 2026, 19:55 IST
Vance’s remarks came hours after Trump announced that the United States had carried out what he described as a ‘large-scale strike’ against Venezuela.
US Vice President JD Vance (Credits: AFP)
US Vice President JD Vance has strongly defended Washington’s actions against Venezuela, saying President Donald Trump had repeatedly offered chances to de-escalate before ordering a major operation that led to the capture of Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro.
In a post on X, Vance said the White House had been clear about its demands from the beginning, particularly on drug trafficking and oil-related disputes.
“The president offered multiple off-ramps, but was very clear throughout this process: the drug trafficking must stop, and the stolen oil must be returned to the United States. Maduro is the newest person to find out that President Trump means what he says,” Vance wrote.
He also praised the role of US forces involved in the operation, calling it a major success.
“Kudos to our brave special operators who pulled off a truly impressive operation,” he added.
In a follow-up post, Vance addressed criticism from those questioning the legality of the US action. He argued that Maduro’s legal situation in the United States justified the move and dismissed claims that the operation violated international norms.
“And PSA for everyone saying this was ‘illegal’,” Vance wrote.
The president offered multiple off ramps, but was very clear throughout this process: the drug trafficking must stop, and the stolen oil must be returned to the United States. Maduro is the newest person to find out that President Trump means what he says.Kudos to our brave… pic.twitter.com/b1fqkdbB4x
— JD Vance (@JDVance) January 3, 2026
“Maduro has multiple indictments in the United States for narcoterrorism. You don’t get to avoid justice for drug trafficking in the United States because you live in a palace in Caracas.”
Vance’s remarks came hours after Trump announced that the United States had carried out what he described as a “large-scale strike” against Venezuela, an operation conducted in coordination with US law enforcement agencies. Trump said Maduro had been captured and flown out of the country, with further details to be shared later.
The comments highlight the firm stance taken by senior US leaders as tensions between Washington and Caracas reach a critical point. US officials have long accused Maduro’s government of links to drug trafficking and organised crime, allegations that Venezuela has repeatedly denied.
Vance’s statements underline the administration’s position that Maduro’s status as Venezuela’s leader does not place him beyond the reach of US law, reinforcing the message that legal accountability remains central to Washington’s actions.
January 03, 2026, 19:55 IST
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