‘Profoundly pro-American’: Machado outlines a vision for Venezuela’s future

Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado held her first news conference since fleeing Venezuela in December, following the abduction of former President Nicolas Maduro by the US military on January 3, 2026. Speaking at the Heritage Foundation in Washington D.C. on January 16, Machado outlined her vision for Venezuela's future, emphasizing a close alliance with the United States. She stated that a stable, post-Maduro Venezuela would be the US's best ally in the Americas. This announcement followed a closed-door meeting with US President Donald Trump at the White House. The US military action to abduct Maduro, who is now facing trial in New York City, has been criticized by some as a violation of international law.

CIA Director John Ratcliffe met with Venezuela's Interim President Delcy Rodríguez in Caracas on Thursday, reportedly at President Trump's direction. The two-hour meeting aimed to build trust and communication following the US seizure of former President Nicolás Maduro almost two weeks prior. Discussions included potential economic collaboration and ensuring Venezuela doesn't harbor America's adversaries. The meeting coincided with Rodríguez's first state of the union address, where she announced oil industry reforms to attract foreign investment, a shift from Maduro's policies. Ratcliffe's visit marks the first cabinet-level visit to Venezuela, occurring on the same day Trump met with opposition leader Maria Corina Machado in Washington. Rodríguez expressed a willingness to engage in diplomacy with the US, emphasizing the need to defend Venezuela's sovereignty and dignity.

Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado met with U.S. President Donald Trump at the White House in Washington, D.C. on January 16, 2026, following the abduction of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro. The meeting, the first face-to-face encounter between the two leaders, was kept private, unlike Trump's usual practice with foreign leaders. Trump has previously backed Maduro’s former vice president, Delcy Rodriguez, as interim leader. Machado reportedly presented Trump with her Nobel Peace Prize during their discussion about Venezuela's future. The White House has not released a formal statement about the meeting.

Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado stated in Washington on Friday that Venezuela is beginning a transition to democracy and will achieve freedom with support from the U.S. and Donald Trump. Machado's party alleges that Nicolas Maduro stole the 2024 election, a claim supported by Washington and the international community. However, despite Machado's appeal, Trump has chosen to support former Vice-President Delcy Rodriguez as interim leader, prioritizing U.S. access to Venezuela's oil reserves. Trump believes Machado lacks sufficient support among Venezuelans. Machado maintains that this transition will significantly impact Venezuelans, the region, and the world.

In January 2026, Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado presented President Donald Trump with her Nobel Peace Prize at the White House. A photograph of the event was released by the White House. Machado stated that the presentation was to recognize Trump's commitment to Venezuelan freedom. The article does not state when Machado was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize or the specific reasons for her receiving it. It focuses on the act of her giving the award to Trump as a symbolic gesture.

In January 2026, Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado met with U.S. President Donald Trump at the White House following the abduction of Venezuelan President Nicholas Maduro by U.S. special forces. During the meeting, Machado presented Trump with her Nobel Peace Prize, which she had recently won for her opposition to Maduro. Trump accepted the prize, according to an unnamed White House official, and expressed his gratitude on social media. Machado, leader of Vente Venezuela, won the prize after being barred from running in the 2024 presidential elections despite winning the opposition's primary. The meeting occurred amid uncertainty about Venezuela's future and Trump's potential influence over its leadership.

Colombian President Gustavo Petro stated that Colombia is maintaining cooperation with the United States on combating narcotics despite recent threats from U.S. President Donald Trump. The comments, made in an Al Jazeera interview published on January 9, 2026, follow escalating rhetoric and a phone call between Petro and Trump on Wednesday. Trump had accused Petro of running cocaine mills and suggested potential military action against Colombia after the abduction of Venezuelan President Maduro. Petro affirmed his commitment to defending Colombia, but emphasized the importance of open communication with the U.S., despite past information being filtered through unofficial channels. Petro also called for a shared government through dialogue in Venezuela, leading to elections.

In January 2026, US President Donald Trump announced the cancellation of a second wave of attacks on Venezuela, citing "cooperation" from the South American nation, including the release of political prisoners. This follows a US military operation to abduct President Nicolas Maduro. Trump stated the US and Venezuela are collaborating to rebuild Venezuela's oil and gas infrastructure. He also indicated that Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado would visit Washington. Trump mentioned a planned White House meeting with oil executives, anticipating at least $100 billion in investment in Venezuela's oil industry. While ships will remain in place for security, Trump stated the second wave of attacks "will not be needed."

In January 2026, a phone call between U.S. President Trump and Colombian President Petro averted a potential crisis after Trump appeared to threaten military action against Colombia. The 55-minute call, the first between the two leaders, marked a shift from their previous pattern of social media attacks against each other. Arranged hastily by both governments, the call aimed to re-establish dialogue between the long-standing allies amidst regional volatility following the U.S. seizure of Venezuela's president. While no concrete proposals were made, Trump announced a potential White House visit, raising hopes that Petro could navigate U.S. demands while staying true to his ideology as his term nears its end.

Donald Trump stated he will meet with Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado sometime next week. This announcement comes after Trump's recent actions in Venezuela, including the capture of President Nicolás Maduro. While initially dismissing Machado, Trump now anticipates meeting her. The interim Venezuelan government, led by Delcy Rodríguez, has begun releasing political prisoners, potentially as a concession to the U.S. Trump also reiterated his stance on combating drug cartels, threatening land strikes in Latin America, a continuation of actions that began in September. He acknowledged that it will take time for Venezuela to be in a place where they can hold elections.

Thousands of Colombians protested in cities across the country on Wednesday against potential U.S. military intervention following Donald Trump's remarks about expanding military action into Colombia after an attack in Venezuela. The protests, including in Cúcuta and Bogotá, were sparked by a U.S. special forces raid in Caracas, Venezuela, where President Nicolás Maduro was captured. Demonstrators voiced anger at Trump's perceived aggression and interventionist policies. Colombian President Gustavo Petro, who organized the rallies, initially condemned the events in Venezuela as illegal. However, Petro softened his stance after his first conversation with Trump, expressing willingness to meet while urging caution.

In early January 2026, tensions rose between the U.S. and Colombia after President Trump stated military action against Colombia "sounds good" and criticized President Petro. Petro responded by calling for public demonstrations and expressing concern about a potential U.S. attack in an interview with The New York Times. Subsequently, Trump initiated a phone call with Petro that lasted approximately one hour. Following the call, Trump posted on social media that it was a "Great Honor" to speak with Petro, who had called to discuss disagreements. Trump stated he appreciated Petro's call and tone and looked forward to meeting him. The call appeared to de-escalate the crisis.

Donald Trump plans to meet with Colombian President Gustavo Petro at the White House in the "near future," despite recent tensions. This follows a US raid in Venezuela and Trump's critical remarks about Petro, accusing him of drug trafficking. Petro responded by warning of potential armed conflict if the US took military action against Colombia. Trump's administration previously sanctioned Petro in October for allegedly failing to curb drug trafficking, leading to increased cocaine production. Despite these disagreements, Trump described his conversation with Petro as a "Great Honor" and indicated that arrangements are being made for Petro's visit.

Following a US raid that ousted Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro, President Trump indicated that US involvement in Venezuela could last for years. In an interview with the New York Times, Trump stated that the US would "oversee" the country, but did not specify when or if elections would be held. He also said the US would control Venezuelan oil sales "indefinitely" and would be "taking oil" from the country, with the interim government using proceeds to buy US goods. Trump acknowledged Delcy Rodríguez as Venezuela's interim leader, stating she is in constant communication with Secretary of State Marco Rubio and is cooperating with US demands. Despite expectations of opposition leaders returning, Trump dismissed María Corina Machado's leadership potential.

In January 2026, US President Donald Trump indicated that the US role in Venezuela could last for years following the abduction of President Nicolas Maduro by US special forces. Trump refrained from giving a specific timeline but suggested it would extend beyond a year. The US has asserted control over Venezuela, particularly its oil sales, despite claims from interim leader Delcy Rodriguez that no foreign power governs Caracas. Trump stated the US is working well with Rodriguez's government, while the Venezuelan interior minister reported that 100 people were killed during the US operation to abduct Maduro. Maduro was taken to New York to face drug and weapons charges.

In a New York Times interview on January 8, 2026, President Trump stated that the U.S. oversight of Venezuela, including oil extraction, could last for years. He indicated the U.S. would rebuild Venezuela profitably, using and taking its oil to lower prices and provide the country with needed funds. These remarks followed administration officials announcing plans to control Venezuela's oil sales indefinitely. While Republicans largely support the administration's actions, Democrats have expressed concerns about a potentially lengthy intervention without clear legal justification. Trump did not specify a timeline for the U.S. role in Venezuela, suggesting it would be "much longer" than a few months.

According to Venezuelan officials, a U.S. military operation, "Operation Absolute Resolve," to capture President Nicolás Maduro in Caracas, Venezuela, resulted in approximately 100 deaths. The operation, led by Delta Force, took place over the weekend. Venezuela's interior minister, Diosdado Cabello, reported Maduro sustained a leg injury and his wife, Cilia Flores, a head injury. Cuba claims 32 of its military personnel, who were in Venezuela at the request of the government, were also killed during the operation. A U.S. official stated that seven U.S. service members were injured, with five already returned to duty. Venezuela has declared a week of mourning for the deceased military members.

The United States seized two tankers, the Russian-flagged Marinera in the North Atlantic and the M/T Sophia in the Caribbean, for allegedly transporting Venezuelan oil in violation of sanctions. The Marinera was boarded after a nearly two-week pursuit, with logistical support from the British Navy. The US accused the M/T Sophia of illicit activities and received cooperation from Venezuelan leadership regarding this seizure. Russia has condemned the seizure of the Marinera, demanding proper treatment and repatriation of its crew. The US claims the Marinera was a stateless "shadow fleet" vessel operating under a false flag. The US intends to sell the seized oil and control the distribution of proceeds to benefit the Venezuelan people.

In January 2026, the US government announced it would control Venezuelan oil sales "indefinitely." The US Department of Energy stated it has begun marketing Venezuelan oil globally, with proceeds deposited in US-controlled accounts. These funds will be disbursed at the US government's discretion for the benefit of both American and Venezuelan people. This action follows the abduction of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and amid a pressure campaign by the Trump administration. The US also seized Venezuela-linked vessels for allegedly violating US sanctions, including a Russian-flagged ship in the North Atlantic. The US plans to control Venezuela's oil reserves, with an initial sale of 30-50 million barrels anticipated.

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.

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.

Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado stated in a Fox News interview that she hasn't spoken to U.S. President Donald Trump since October 2025, despite praising his administration's military actions in Venezuela, specifically the abduction of Nicolas Maduro. Machado expressed gratitude for Trump's "courageous vision" in bringing Maduro to justice. Trump, however, has publicly questioned Machado's leadership potential and popular support within Venezuela. Machado, who won the opposition's presidential primary in 2023 but was barred from running, received the Nobel Peace Prize in Norway in December 2025 and plans to return to Venezuela "as soon as possible." Delcy Rodriguez has been sworn in as interim leader of Venezuela.

Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado praised Donald Trump in a Fox News interview, offering to share her Nobel Peace Prize with him. This occurred after the U.S. captured Nicolás Maduro and Trump declined to support Machado as a successor. Machado appealed to Trump, who has instead conditionally backed Vice President Delcy Rodríguez as interim leader, citing Machado's lack of support within Venezuela. Machado stated the opposition would transform Venezuela into a U.S. ally and energy hub, seeking to attract foreign investment and repatriate Venezuelan refugees. The interview took place on Monday, marking Machado's first televised appearance since Maduro's capture. The future of Venezuela's leadership and potential elections remain uncertain.

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 US strikes in Venezuela and the abduction of President Maduro on January 6, 2026, Colombia is preparing for a potential refugee crisis. Defense Minister Sanchez announced the deployment of 30,000 soldiers to the Venezuelan border to bolster security and enacted emergency measures to support refugees. The Colombian government established five emergency command posts in border cities to coordinate humanitarian aid, security, and territorial control. These measures are in response to the potential influx of over a million Venezuelan refugees and concerns about armed groups, like the ELN and Segunda Marquetalia, seeking refuge in Colombia after operating in Venezuela. President Petro dispatched Minister Florian to Cucuta to address humanitarian concerns.

Following a raid in Venezuela, President Trump has signaled potential interest in other nations, invoking a revised "Donroe Doctrine" asserting US supremacy in the Western Hemisphere. Trump expressed interest in Greenland, citing national security concerns related to Russian and Chinese activity and the island's rare earth minerals and strategic location. Greenland's Prime Minister dismissed the notion of US control as a "fantasy." Trump also warned Colombian President Petro to "watch his ass," amidst disputes over drug trade and US actions against boats in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific. Colombia possesses significant oil reserves and is a major producer of precious metals and coal. These actions suggest a potentially assertive foreign policy approach in Trump's second term.

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 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 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 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.

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.

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 Nicolas Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, appeared in a New York City federal court on Monday, January 5, 2026, two days after being abducted from Caracas by US special forces. They pleaded not guilty to US charges of "narco-terrorism" and other offenses. Maduro's lawyers plan to contest the legality of his arrest, citing his immunity as head of state, despite the US not recognizing him as Venezuela's legitimate leader. The couple could face life in prison if convicted of working with drug cartels. Maduro's next court hearing is scheduled for March 17.

Deposed Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro pleaded not guilty in a Manhattan federal court to US charges of drugs, weapons, and narco-terrorism after being captured by US special forces in Venezuela on Saturday. The arraignment hearing was brief, with Maduro confirming his name and understanding of the four charges, each carrying a potential life sentence. Maduro, who insisted he was still president, claimed he was illegally captured and is a prisoner of war. His wife, Cilia Flores, also captured, appeared with injuries. The UN Security Council held an emergency meeting, with some countries condemning the US action as a crime of aggression and a breach of international law. Maduro was initially indicted in 2020 as part of a drug-trafficking case.

Following comments from Donald Trump suggesting Colombia could be the next target in a U.S. "war on drugs," Colombian President Gustavo Petro threatened military resistance. Trump, speaking on Air Force One, accused Petro of running a country "very sick" with cocaine production and personally profiting from the drug trade. Petro responded on X, denying Trump's accusations and vowing to take up arms to defend Colombia if attacked, despite his past commitment to peace. This exchange follows previous criticisms and threats from Trump, who has labeled Petro an "illegal drug dealer" and "lunatic." Petro has also been a vocal critic of U.S. actions, particularly strikes on suspected drug-smuggling vessels in the Caribbean.

In January 2026, abducted Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife are scheduled to appear in a New York court to face drug-related charges. U.S. President Donald Trump has asserted that the U.S. is in control of Venezuela and threatened further military action against the country. Trump also issued a threat against Colombian President Gustavo Petro and warned Mexico to improve its performance. The UN Security Council is expected to discuss the U.S. actions in Venezuela. These events follow a period of heightened tensions and ongoing disputes involving the U.S. and various Latin American nations.

Cuba announced that 32 of its citizens, including military and intelligence personnel, died in U.S. attacks in Venezuela on Sunday. President Miguel Díaz-Canel stated the deceased were members of Cuba's armed forces or interior ministry, fulfilling a mission requested by Venezuela. This announcement is a rare public acknowledgement of Cuba's involvement in Venezuela, where it has a longstanding alliance. Cuba has historically sent thousands of citizens, including teachers, doctors, intelligence agents, and security guards, to Venezuela in exchange for oil. The deaths occurred amidst increasing U.S. military pressure and Venezuela's reliance on Cuban personnel for security, with Venezuela reporting a preliminary death toll of 80 in the attacks.

Nicolas Maduro, born in Caracas in 1962, rose from a working-class background to become the authoritarian president of Venezuela for over a decade. His political journey began in organized labor, leading to involvement with the Socialist League of Venezuela and political training in Cuba. He later founded a transport workers' union before entering formal politics. Maduro's presidency ended abruptly on January 3, 2026, when U.S. forces abducted him and his wife, First Lady Cilia Flores, to face drug- and weapons-related charges in a U.S. court. His early life included an interest in Western rock music and student politics, though his high school graduation is unconfirmed.

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.

Following a U.S. attack that deposed Nicolás Maduro, exiled Venezuelans in Colombia celebrated with cautious optimism. Millions had fled Venezuela over the past decade due to economic collapse and political repression. While the prospect of returning home brought joy and tears, few have actually crossed the border back into Venezuela. The border crossing in Cúcuta, which accounts for 70 percent of traffic between the two countries, remained quiet, with normal commerce continuing. The United Nations and the Colombian government reported that the flow of people in both directions remained normal. Many Venezuelans remain wary, with the road to returning home still uncertain.

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.

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.

In January 2026, Delcy Rodríguez was sworn in as Venezuela's interim president, according to the U.S. Following this, President Trump stated that Rodríguez would cooperate with the U.S. in governing Venezuela. However, Rodríguez quickly refuted this in a televised address, condemning the U.S. as an illegal invader and affirming Venezuela's determination to remain free. She emphasized that the U.S. seeks regime change to seize Venezuela's resources. Rodríguez delivered her address alongside Venezuela’s National Defense Council, signaling a unified front against U.S. intervention. She and other Venezuelan leaders continue to recognize Nicolás Maduro as the legitimate president, defying Trump's demands.