In a press conference held at Mar-a-Lago, President Donald Trump confirmed the successful capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, following a massive US military operation.
“Maduro and his wife both will face US justice,” Trump declared, stating that the couple is currently being transported by ship to New York. The President revealed that the operation utilized air, land, and sea assets, resulting in the neutralization of Venezuelan military capacity and a strategic blackout in Caracas.
Key Developments:
- Transition of Power: Trump announced that the US will temporarily administer Venezuela to ensure a “safe, proper, and judicious transition.”
- Economic Shifts: US oil companies are set to enter Venezuela to rebuild the industry, though the oil embargo remains in effect until all US demands are met.
- Legal Charges: US Attorney General Pamela Jo Bondi unsealed indictments against Maduro and Flores in the Southern District of New York. Charges include Narco-Terrorism Conspiracy and possession of destructive devices.
Venezuelan Response The Venezuelan government issued a strong condemnation, labeling the attack a “grave military aggression” and a violation of the UN Charter. The statement accused the US of attempting to seize Venezuela’s strategic resources, specifically oil and minerals. While Venezuelan official Diosdado Cabello called for calm and resistance, reports surfaced that Vice President Delcy Rodriguez may have fled to Moscow prior to the strike—a claim Russian officials have denied.