Global Outcry as Deadly U.S. Operation in Caracas Captures President Maduro

A large‑scale U.S. military operation in Caracas has resulted in significant casualties and the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, prompting widespread international condemnation. The raid, conducted in the early hours of January 3, involved more than 150 U.S. aircraft and targeted multiple military installations across the capital, including the heavily fortified Fuerte Tiuna complex where Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, were located.

According to U.S. officials, the mission—codenamed Operation Absolute Resolve—was planned for months and executed under the direction of President Donald Trump. The Pentagon rehearsed the extraction repeatedly, even constructing a replica of Maduro’s safe room to simulate the assault. U.S. forces disabled power grids and neutralized air‑defense systems to facilitate the operation, which lasted less than an hour on the ground.

Venezuelan authorities reported that both civilians and military personnel were killed during the strikes, though the exact number remains unconfirmed. Local media and eyewitnesses described explosions across Caracas, widespread destruction near military sites, and severe disruptions to transportation and essential services.

The capture of Maduro has triggered intense political unrest inside Venezuela. Supporters of the ousted leader flooded the streets of Caracas and other cities, clashing with security forces and demanding his return. Many residents reported fear, shortages, and uncertainty as armed groups roamed neighborhoods and essential services shut down.

International reaction has been sharply divided. Several governments and human‑rights organizations questioned the legality of the U.S. operation, citing concerns over sovereignty, civilian harm, and the precedent set by forcibly removing a sitting head of state. The United Nations has called for clarity on the legal basis for the raid and urged restraint from all parties.

Maduro was transported to a U.S. warship and later flown to New York, where he is expected to face charges related to drug trafficking and narco‑terrorism, previously filed by the U.S. Department of Justice. His wife, Cilia Flores, was also taken into custody.

The situation in Venezuela remains volatile as the country confronts a leadership vacuum, civil unrest, and uncertainty over its political future.