In a stunning development that has sent shockwaves across the globe, former United States President Donald Trump has confirmed that American forces conducted military strikes against Venezuela. He further made the explosive claim that the country's leader, Nicolas Maduro, along with his wife, have been captured and flown out of the South American nation.
The Breaking Announcement
The confirmation came directly from Donald Trump, though the precise platform or context of his statement was not detailed in the initial report. The announcement, made public on January 3, 2026, represents a dramatic and unprecedented escalation in the long-standing tensions between the US and the Venezuelan government under Maduro. The news broke in the afternoon, around 02:59 PM Indian Standard Time (IST), as reported.
Unprecedented Claims of Capture
The core of Trump's statement contains two monumental assertions. First, he confirmed that US strikes were carried out on Venezuelan territory. The nature, location, and scale of these military actions remain unclear at this early hour. Second, and even more consequential, is the claim that President Nicolas Maduro and his wife were apprehended as part of this operation and subsequently flown out of Venezuela.
If verified, this would constitute a direct intervention of a scale rarely seen in modern inter-American relations. The report, filed by Garvit Bhirani, is currently being treated as breaking news, with more details expected to follow as the situation develops rapidly.
Immediate Implications and Global Reaction
The immediate consequences of such an event are vast and unpredictable. The political vacuum and potential power struggle within Venezuela would be immense. The international community, particularly regional powers in Latin America and global bodies like the United Nations, would be forced into a urgent response. The action also raises serious questions about international law and sovereignty.
For India, which maintains diplomatic relations with Venezuela and has interests in the region's energy sector, the developments will be closely monitored by the Ministry of External Affairs. The situation poses significant risks to global oil markets and geopolitical stability.
This remains a fluid and unfolding story. Key details awaiting confirmation include the official US government stance, the condition and whereabouts of Maduro, the reaction of the Venezuelan military and government institutions, and the broader strategic objectives behind the reported operation. The world now watches and waits for the next chapter in this rapidly evolving crisis.
