CaliToday (03/1/2026):
CARACAS - The geopolitical landscape of Latin America shifted violently in the early hours of January 3, as the United States launched a massive military operation in Venezuela, resulting in the capture and extraction of President Nicolás Maduro.
US President Donald Trump confirmed the high-stakes mission, stating that American forces had successfully detained the Venezuelan strongman and his wife, Cilia Flores, and transported them to US territory.
"Caracas Shook in the Night"
The operation began under the cover of darkness, turning the capital city of Caracas into a war zone. At least seven massive explosions were reported across key strategic sectors of the city. Residents reported the terrifying sound of low-flying military aircraft skimming the rooftops, followed by the wailing of sirens.
In an immediate response to the unfolding chaos, the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) shut down all airspace over Venezuela, declaring it a no-fly zone due to "ongoing military activity."
While a US government official confirmed to the press that there were zero US casualties, the toll on the Venezuelan side remains unknown. Venezuelan officials have stated that the number of wounded and dead is currently "undetermined."
The View from Washington
President Trump broke the news via social media, declaring a "massive strike" had successfully removed Maduro from power. In a brief telephone interview with The Times, Trump hailed the execution of the mission.
"A lot of good planning, a lot of great troops, and great people," Trump said. "This was truly an excellent operation."
When pressed on whether he had received Congressional authorization for the strike or what the future holds for Caracas, Trump deflected, stating he would address the nation and the world in a formal press conference at Mar-a-Lago later this morning.
Power Vacuum and Chaos in Caracas
The sudden removal of Maduro has plunged the Venezuelan government into disarray.
Vice President Delcy Rodriguez, appearing on state television, admitted the government has lost contact with the President. In a tense statement, she demanded that the United States provide "proof of life" for Maduro and his wife, noting their location is currently unknown to Venezuelan authorities.
Meanwhile, General Padrino Lopez, Venezuela's Minister of Defense and a key pillar of the Maduro regime, made his first public appearance since the strikes began. Addressing the nation, he condemned the operation:
"This incursion is the most horrible insult that the country has ever experienced."
A Constitutional Crisis Looms
According to the Venezuelan Constitution, executive power should transfer to Vice President Rodriguez. However, the legitimacy of this succession is already being challenged. The United States and a coalition of Western nations do not recognize the Maduro regime, instead viewing opposition leader Edmundo Gonzalez as the legitimate President.
Analysts predict an immediate struggle for control between the entrenched military elite led by Padrino Lopez and the opposition forces supported by the US.
Regional Fallout
The shockwaves of the raid are already being felt across South America:
- Colombia: President Gustavo Petro announced the immediate deployment of military forces to the Colombian-Venezuelan border. He warned of a potential humanitarian crisis and prepared for a "massive flow of refugees" fleeing the instability.
- Argentina: President Javier Milei, a vocal critic of socialism, celebrated the news. "Freedom is advancing," Milei declared, welcoming the detention of Maduro.
Key Developments at a Glance:
- Status: Nicolás Maduro and First Lady Cilia Flores are in US custody.
- Military Action: 7 confirmed explosions in Caracas; US Airspace ban in effect.
- Casualties: None for the US; Venezuelan casualties unknown.
- Next Steps: President Trump to hold a press conference at Mar-a-Lago (Morning EST).
- The Regime: VP Delcy Rodriguez demands proof of life; Defense Minister Lopez condemns the "invasion."
This is a developing story. Updates will follow.