The Digest:
The United States has executed a dramatic military escalation in Venezuela, launching a “large-scale strike” that President Trump claims resulted in the capture of leader Nicolás Maduro. This operation marks the peak of months of mounting pressure, transforming a geopolitical standoff into a direct and historic intervention.
Key Points:
Direct Strike & Capture: The US launched military strikes in the early hours of Saturday, with President Trump confirming that President Nicolás Maduro and his wife were “captured and flown out of the Country.”
Special Forces Operation: US officials confirmed that elite troops, including members of Delta Force, were involved in the operation to capture Maduro.
Preceded by Major Buildup: The strike followed months of increased US military presence in the Caribbean, including the deployment of the USS Gerald R. Ford aircraft carrier.
Previous Maritime Campaign: The US had already seized Venezuelan oil tankers and conducted over 30 strikes on boats allegedly involved in drug trafficking.
Immediate Fallout: Venezuela declared a state of emergency, activated defense plans, and urged supporters to mobilize against the “aggression.”
Civilian Impact & Warnings: The US State Department warned American citizens in Venezuela to shelter in place, and the FAA banned US commercial flights over the country due to safety risks.
Political & Legal Backlash: US lawmakers, including Republicans and Democrats, questioned the legality of the strikes without congressional approval, calling the war “illegal.”
Targeted Sites: Opposition sources reported strikes on key locations, including Fuerte Tiuna military complex, La Carlota airbase, and the port of La Guaira.
Contradictory Signals: The attack came just days after Maduro signaled a new openness to discuss drug trafficking and migration with the US.
Opposition Stance: Venezuelan opposition leader MarÃa Corina Machado had previously expressed support for increased US pressure, including potential military action.
This operation represents a definitive and violent turning point, moving beyond sanctions and naval blockades to a direct military offensive that has abruptly reshaped Venezuela’s political landscape and its role in global power struggles.
Sources: CNN, CBS News
