How Trump & Co sold the attack on Venezuela

Following the reported seizure of Nicolás Maduro, the Trump administration has warned Diosdado Cabello, a key Maduro ally, that he could face similar consequences if he doesn't support acting president Delcy Rodríguez. US officials are concerned Cabello might disrupt their plan to maintain stability within Maduro's inner circle during a transition period and secure access to Venezuelan oil. The US aims to stabilize Venezuela, ensure fair market access for American and Western companies, and begin a reconciliation process before transitioning to new leadership. The US has also seized Russian-flagged oil tankers allegedly transporting Venezuelan oil illegally. Cabello, who controls police forces, has responded by displaying his power on social media.

Following the capture of Nicolás Maduro by the United States, Venezuela is experiencing intensified repression. Security forces are searching phones, interrogating citizens, and detaining individuals suspected of celebrating Maduro's removal. This crackdown occurs as the interim government, led by Delcy Rodríguez, publicly demands Maduro's release and condemns the U.S. action. Despite this criticism, the U.S. expresses confidence in Rodríguez's cooperation, with indications suggesting potential alignment. The situation highlights the continued presence of Maduro's political and security apparatus, and a worsening of daily life for Venezuelans. At least 14 journalists and six citizens were detained; most have been released.

Following the seizure of Nicolás Maduro by the United States, Venezuelans are facing an uncertain future. Maduro and his wife were taken to the U.S. to face drug trafficking and weapons charges after an operation in Caracas that reportedly resulted in dozens of deaths, including Cuban security forces. While some Venezuelans are cautiously welcoming Maduro's removal, others, like Rosa Contreras, feel humiliated and are protesting his detention. Maduro's vice-president, Delcy Rodríguez, has assumed interim power, and police are patrolling the streets, with reports of journalists being detained. The U.S. government has stated it will "run" Venezuela, but the specifics of this plan remain unclear, leaving many unsure of what will happen next.

Cuba's official newspaper, Granma, reported that 32 Cuban military personnel were killed in Venezuela during what it described as a U.S. military operation against Nicolás Maduro. The Cuban government stated the deceased were part of missions representing the Revolutionary Armed Forces and the Ministry of the Interior, carried out at the request of Venezuela's government. The Cuban Foreign Minister condemned the U.S. action and asserted Cuba's readiness to defend itself against any U.S. intervention. The deceased, ranging in age from 26 to 60, included colonels, lieutenants, majors, captains, and reserve soldiers. Cuba announced two days of mourning following the incident.

Following the abduction of Nicolas Maduro by US military forces, Venezuela's interim leader, Delcy Rodriguez, asserted that Venezuela is not being governed by any foreign agent. This statement comes after Maduro and his wife pleaded not guilty to drug-trafficking charges in a New York court. Venezuela's prosecutor general condemned the US military operation as an act of terrorism and demanded Maduro's release. The operation, which resulted in numerous deaths, has been widely criticized as a violation of international law, with Venezuela and Cuba reporting military casualties. While President Trump initially stated the US would "run" Venezuela, Secretary of State Rubio later clarified that the US would guide the country's direction through sanctions and access to its oil industry.

In January 2026, the U.S. is pressuring the interim Venezuelan government, led by Delcy Rodríguez, to expel advisors from Cuba, China, Russia, and Iran. Secretary of State Marco Rubio outlined these demands in a classified meeting with congressional leaders. The U.S. seeks the removal of spies and military personnel from these countries, while potentially allowing some diplomats to remain. This follows the capture of Nicolás Maduro by U.S. forces and aims to reopen the oil trade between Venezuela and the United States, potentially requiring Venezuela to alter its nationalized oil industry. Rodríguez is attempting to balance protecting Venezuela's sovereignty with avoiding antagonism from the U.S.

A Reuters/Ipsos poll conducted in January 2026 revealed that Americans are divided on the US military's abduction of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro. The poll found 33% of Americans support the action, 34% oppose it, and 32% are unsure. Support for the abduction is significantly higher among Republicans (65%) compared to Democrats (11%) and Independents (23%). The poll also indicated that Americans generally oppose the US governing Venezuela, stationing troops there, or taking control of its oil fields. A large majority (72%) expressed concern that the US could become too involved in Venezuela. These results come after President Trump stated the US would "run" Venezuela and threatened further military action.

In January 2026, Secretary of State Marco Rubio successfully influenced President Trump to authorize military action leading to the ouster of Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro. The operation, culminating in Maduro's capture by U.S. forces in Caracas, resulted in at least 80 deaths. Maduro and his wife were subsequently taken to New York to face cocaine trafficking charges. Rubio's involvement stems from a long-held goal to remove Maduro from power and potentially grant U.S. companies access to Venezuelan oil. However, the article suggests that the aftermath in Venezuela could impact Rubio's future political aspirations.

The BBC is examining the close relationship between Cuba and Venezuela, particularly in light of recent events. Following a military operation in Venezuela where Nicolás Maduro was seized, Cuba's reliance on Venezuelan oil supplies is now potentially vulnerable. The report explores how a collapse of Venezuela's oil supply could negatively impact Havana. Will Grant, the BBC's Cuba correspondent, is reporting from Cúcuta, on the Colombia-Venezuela border, to provide insights into the situation. The report also includes video produced by Marina Costa and Gabriela Boccaccio, and graphics by Jean-li Lee.

Following deadly US strikes on Venezuela and the capture of its leader Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, the US faced strong international condemnation at a UN Security Council emergency meeting on Monday. Several countries, including Brazil, China, Russia, and Spain, denounced the US actions as a "crime of aggression." Despite Republican assurances that the US is not at war, Democratic Senate leadership cautioned about the potential for a new conflict. The situation has also led to the diversion of over 28,000 federal law enforcement personnel to ICE enforcement and removal operations. The article highlights the international fallout and domestic concerns surrounding the US involvement in Venezuela.

In January 2026, the United States abducted Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, leading to global condemnation, including from some US allies within the UN Security Council. Maduro appeared in a New York court, where he pleaded not guilty to drug charges and declared himself a prisoner of war. The UN Security Council convened emergency talks to address the US actions against Venezuela and Maduro's abduction. The international outcry stems from the US government's unprecedented action of abducting a sitting head of state. The situation remains tense as the legal and diplomatic ramifications unfold.

In January 2026, the UN Security Council held an emergency meeting in New York City to address the abduction of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife by US special forces. The US intended to bring the pair to face drug trafficking charges in a US federal court. Venezuela, Cuba, Russia, and China condemned the US operation as a violation of international law and an illegitimate armed attack. Even traditional US allies like Mexico and Denmark, who have been threatened by the US in the past, criticized the action. They warned that the abduction sets a dangerous precedent and violates national sovereignty, urging the council to act decisively.

In 2026, U.S. military strikes in Venezuela targeting President Maduro's security detail resulted in significant Cuban casualties, revealing the extent of Cuba's security presence in Venezuela. At least 32 of the 80 killed were Cuban armed forces or interior ministry members. This highlights Maduro's reliance on Cuban agents for protection amid U.S. military buildup in the Caribbean. Cuba's involvement in Venezuelan security began over two decades prior, after a coup attempt against Hugo Chávez in 2002, when Cuba provided military intelligence and assistance to maintain socialist power. Since then, Cuba has provided extensive support to Venezuela's military and security apparatus.

Following the capture of Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro by American forces and his transport to the US, an interim president in Venezuela has offered to collaborate with the United States. This development occurred after Donald Trump warned of further strikes. Tensions are high at the Venezuelan border with Colombia. European leaders are divided on how to respond, struggling to balance welcoming the removal of an authoritarian leader with upholding international law regarding the US's actions. Europe is emphasizing the need for a democratic transition, noting their non-recognition of Maduro's legitimacy since the disputed 2024 elections. The US has declared it will run Venezuela and control its oil industry.

In January 2026, Colombian President Gustavo Petro responded to threats from U.S. President Donald Trump, stating he would defend Colombia against potential U.S. intervention. Petro's statement followed Trump's accusations that Colombia was facilitating drug trafficking and his suggestion of military action similar to the recent abduction of Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro. Trump's remarks were denounced by Colombia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs as undue interference in internal affairs and a violation of international law. Petro, a former leftist fighter, has been a vocal critic of Trump's policies and denies the accusations of drug trafficking, asserting his government is actively combating drug production. The escalating tensions highlight a growing rift between the two nations.

At a United Nations Security Council emergency meeting on January 5, 2026, the United States faced condemnation for its capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and military incursion into Venezuela. Even U.S. allies, like France, criticized the action as a violation of international law that undermines international order. U.N. Secretary General António Guterres stated the U.S. violated the U.N. charter, while Russia and China demanded Maduro's release and a halt to further U.S. military action. The U.S. ambassador defended the action as a law enforcement operation against a narcotics fugitive, arguing it made Latin America safer. This was the second recent Security Council meeting addressing U.S. actions regarding Venezuela that were deemed threats to world order.

Nicolás Maduro, the former Venezuelan leader, is scheduled to appear in a Manhattan court to face charges related to drug trafficking and other alleged crimes. The court appearance comes as tensions rise in the region. U.S. President Donald Trump has suggested the possibility of U.S. action against other countries, specifically mentioning Colombia and Mexico. The potential actions were alluded to in connection with the ongoing situation involving Maduro and Venezuela. The exact nature and timing of any potential U.S. actions remain unclear.

Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, pleaded not guilty to drug and weapon charges in a New York City courtroom on Monday. Maduro, who claims he was kidnapped from his home in Caracas on January 3rd, declared himself a "prisoner of war" during the arraignment. The couple was arrested by US forces in Venezuela on Saturday in a surprise operation involving strikes on military bases. Dressed in jail attire, Maduro and Flores listened to the proceedings through Spanish translation headphones. The 40-minute hearing was held in the same courtroom where Sean "Diddy" Combs was previously tried.

In January 2026, Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife were abducted and brought to the US to face charges filed in the Southern District of New York. The indictment, initially sealed before December 25th, accuses Maduro of leading a corrupt government fueled by drug trafficking, specifically "narco-terrorism" and conspiracy to import cocaine. These charges, similar to those from a 2020 indictment, carry potential life sentences. US officials allege Maduro collaborated with major drug trafficking groups in Colombia and Mexico, despite data suggesting Venezuela isn't a primary drug producer. While Trump has linked Maduro to the Tren de Aragua gang, US intelligence agencies have found no evidence to support this claim.

Following the reported removal of Nicolás Maduro from power in Venezuela by a US military operation, Cuba faces an uncertain future. Cuba and Venezuela have maintained close ties since 1999, with Venezuela providing oil to Cuba in exchange for Cuban doctors and support. The Cuban government has condemned the US action, declared national mourning for Cuban nationals killed in the operation, and acknowledged the presence of Cuban security personnel protecting Maduro. The article highlights Cuba's significant influence within the Venezuelan government and military, including the presence of Cuban advisors and security details. It also notes internal tensions within Venezuela regarding the perceived imbalance in the relationship, as Venezuela continues to supply Cuba with approximately 35,000 barrels of oil daily. The loss of Maduro is expected to have a negative impact on Cuba, which is already experiencing food shortages.

Following Nicolás Maduro's arrest by U.S. forces on drug trafficking charges, Venezuela has ordered a nationwide manhunt for individuals who supported the military operation that led to his capture. A state of emergency decree, issued Saturday and published Monday, directs police to immediately search for and arrest anyone involved in promoting or supporting the "armed attack by the United States." The decree did not specify the charges those arrested would face. Maduro made his first court appearance in New York on Monday after his arrest over the weekend. The situation follows a period of political crisis in Venezuela.

In January 2026, former US President Donald Trump stated that Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado is unfit to run Venezuela. This statement followed Trump's announcement that the US would "run" Venezuela after the abduction of President Nicolas Maduro. Machado was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize the previous year, dedicating part of it to Trump. The reasons behind Trump's assessment of Machado's leadership capabilities were attributed to a perceived lack of support and respect. The events occurred within the context of escalating tensions between the US and Venezuela, marked by the removal of Maduro from power.

In a New Year's Eve interview, just hours before his capture by U.S. forces in Caracas, Nicolás Maduro made a final plea for peace to the American public and President Trump. Maduro, driving around Caracas, claimed Venezuela was a friendly nation and government, offering the slogan "No war. Yes peace." He accused Trump of seeking pretexts for invasion while asserting his desire for a peaceful resolution. Maduro also presented a red hat with his peace slogan, mimicking Trump's "Make America Great Again" cap. The interview, broadcast on Venezuelan state television, provided insight into Maduro's mindset as the U.S. military closed in, revealing his attempt to portray himself as a peace-loving leader despite previous defiant statements.

Following the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro by U.S. forces in Caracas, Venezuelans are reacting with a mix of hope and worry. The U.S. accuses Maduro of running a "narco-terrorist" regime, allegations he denies, and intends to hold him in New York City on drug trafficking and weapons charges. While some Venezuelans express gratitude towards the U.S. for removing Maduro, citing a renewed sense of hope, others fear the uncertainty of the future. Supporters of Maduro have rallied in Caracas, demanding his release and condemning the U.S. action as a kidnapping. The U.S. plans to manage Venezuela, including its oil reserves, until a replacement for Maduro is established, leaving the country's future unclear.

On January 4, 2026, the United States allegedly conducted a swift regime change operation in Venezuela. According to the report, the US bombed Venezuela and abducted President Nicolas Maduro and his wife from their compound in Caracas. The report states that Maduro and his wife were then taken to a detention center in New York. The article details the alleged overnight events leading to this change in power. The reasons behind the US's alleged actions were not specified in the provided information.

Satellite imagery reveals damage to Venezuela's largest military base, Fuerte Tiuna, following the capture of President Nicolás Maduro on Saturday. The images, released by Vantor, a space technology company, show that at least five buildings within the Caracas-based complex were destroyed. The damage also includes a gate and security building located in a wooded area near the compound. The imagery shows cargo containers and military vehicles near the destroyed buildings, but their contents are unknown. Fuerte Tiuna, built into a mountainside south of Caracas, is a military complex with fortifications and roads. The imagery provides visual evidence of the impact of the operation at the Venezuelan military base.

In January 2026, President Trump stated his intention to exploit Venezuela's vast oil reserves following the capture of its leader, Nicolás Maduro. Trump indicated that the aggressive U.S. actions were necessary to curb drugs and migration from that country. He claimed American companies would benefit, with profits also reimbursing the U.S. for damages caused by Venezuela. Trump suggested the country's oil wealth was a key factor in his decision to attack, and pledged that the United States would "run" Venezuela for the foreseeable future. While Venezuela holds the world's largest oil reserves, analysts caution that significantly increasing production could be a lengthy and expensive process.

In January 2026, the United States conducted a "large scale strike" against Venezuela, according to former US President Donald Trump. Trump claimed that Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife were captured and removed from the country. US Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau stated this marked a "new dawn" for Venezuela. Maduro's government condemned the action as military aggression. Colombian President Gustavo Petro alerted the world to the attack and reiterated the need for peace and respect for international law. US media outlets like Fox News and CBS News also reported on the strikes within Venezuela.

Explosions were reported in Caracas, Venezuela, on Saturday, January 3, 2026, with the cause of the blasts currently unknown. The incident follows months of increasing pressure from the United States on Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, whom the U.S. government accuses of leading a "narco-terrorist" state and controlling drug trafficking groups. The U.S. military has increased its presence in the Caribbean since late August, engaging in operations against vessels allegedly involved in drug smuggling. These actions have resulted in numerous deaths and have been criticized as potential extrajudicial killings. The situation is ongoing, and further updates are expected.

Cilia Flores, Venezuela's first lady and wife of Nicolás Maduro, was captured alongside him and taken to the United States on January 3, 2026. Flores is a powerful political figure in Venezuela who has built influence over decades, shaping the judicial system and embedding loyalists within state institutions. She rose to prominence through her association with Hugo Chávez and played a critical role in consolidating Maduro's power after Chávez's death in 2013. Flores is considered a central figure in Venezuelan corruption, with her family amassing significant wealth. She and Maduro have been partners since the late 1990s, marrying in 2013 when he became president.