Machado says Venezuela will be free with support of Trump

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.

Following Nicolás Maduro's removal, the CIA chief visited Venezuela as opposition leader María Corina Machado declared her intention to become the country's first female president. Machado presented her Nobel Peace Prize medal to Donald Trump, thanking him for his actions against Maduro. Despite her optimism, experts suggest Trump has sidelined Machado's movement, favoring Maduro's vice-president, Delcy Rodríguez, as acting president. Trump's administration reportedly believes Machado is incapable of maintaining security and prefers working with Maduro's allies to prevent national collapse. Machado hopes to regain Trump's favor by offering him her medal.

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.

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 María Corina Machado, who received a Nobel Peace Prize last year, stated she "presented" her medal to Donald Trump during a White House meeting. This occurred nearly two weeks after Trump ordered the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. Machado said the gesture was to recognize Trump's commitment to Venezuelan freedom. The Nobel organizers clarified that the title of laureate cannot be transferred, despite Machado's earlier desire to share the award with Trump. Trump's decision not to support Machado as Venezuela's new leader after Maduro's removal reportedly stems from strained relationships and security concerns. Analysts view Machado's action as an attempt to regain favor with Trump and revive her movement's chances of gaining power.

Donald Trump will meet with Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado at the White House on Thursday to discuss Venezuela's future after Nicolás Maduro's capture by the U.S. Machado's visit comes as the White House has been engaging with Maduro's former vice-president, Delcy Rodríguez, as interim leader, and is planning to reopen the Venezuelan embassy in Washington. Despite Machado's Nobel Peace Prize and recognition of her replacement as the legitimate winner of the presidential election, Trump has questioned her ability to govern. The meeting's outcome may hinge on Machado's ability to leverage her award to gain Trump's support, as he has expressed interest in sharing the honor.

Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado is scheduled to meet with Donald Trump at the White House on Thursday. This meeting follows Machado's public offer to share her Nobel Peace Prize with Trump, who has long desired the award. Despite Trump's initial coolness towards Machado and his recent support for Venezuela's Vice-President Delcy Rodríguez, Machado hopes to persuade him to recognize her opposition coalition as the legitimate leadership during Venezuela's transition. The meeting's purpose is for Machado to convince Trump that his backing of Rodríguez's interim government is a mistake. Ultimately, Trump's view of Machado's role will likely depend on Rodríguez's actions and whether they align with his goals for Venezuela.

Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado met with former President Donald Trump at the White House on Thursday. During the meeting, Machado stated that she "presented" her Nobel Peace Prize medal to Trump as recognition for his commitment to Venezuelan freedom, though it is unclear if he accepted it. Machado, whose movement claimed victory in Venezuela's contested 2024 elections, framed the gesture as a symbol of brotherhood between the US and Venezuela in their fight against tyranny. Trump has been dealing with Delcy Rodríguez, the acting head of state, instead of endorsing Machado. The Nobel Committee clarified that the prize itself is not transferable, although the medal can change ownership.

On Thursday, January 12, 2026, US President Donald Trump will meet with Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado at the White House. This meeting comes after the US abducted Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro earlier in January. Machado, who won the Nobel Peace Prize in 2025, has had limited involvement in US discussions about Venezuela's future, with Trump expressing doubts about her leadership potential. Delcy Rodriguez, Maduro's former vice president, is currently serving as interim president under pressure from the US. Prior to the meeting, Machado met with Pope Leo XIV to discuss the situation in Venezuela and advocate for the release of political prisoners.

Donald Trump has engaged in a feud with Colombia's first left-wing president, Gustavo Petro, mirroring his past antagonism towards Venezuela's Nicolás Maduro. Trump has accused Petro of drug trafficking and threatened military action, similar to actions considered against Maduro. These actions have caused tensions between the two countries. Despite the heated rhetoric, Petro's election win in 2022 was legitimate, unlike Maduro's contested victory, and Petro faces no US federal indictments. The situation de-escalated after a phone call between Trump and Petro, with Trump inviting Petro to the White House. This call was characterized as a "good meeting" by the Colombian foreign ministry.

Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado will meet with President Trump at the White House on Thursday. This meeting occurs weeks after US forces seized Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro in Caracas. Despite Machado's movement claiming victory in the contested 2024 elections, the US has backed Maduro's former vice-president, Delcy Rodríguez, as interim president. Machado hopes to thank Trump for the action against Maduro and offer him her Nobel Peace Prize, although the Nobel Committee clarified it is non-transferable. Trump has expressed reservations about Machado's leadership potential in Venezuela, despite acknowledging her desire to meet. The US considers Rodríguez an ally and cooperative, while Machado insists her coalition should lead Venezuela and criticizes Rodríguez's role in repression.

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.

Following the ousting of Nicolás Maduro, Donald Trump urged oil companies like Chevron and ExxonMobil to invest $100 billion in Venezuela's oil infrastructure. At a White House roundtable, Trump promised "total safety" and security for these investments, emphasizing the opportunity for American oil companies to extract resources. He stated that the investment would come from the oil companies themselves, not the US government, and that the US would benefit from lower energy prices. While some oil executives expressed support and willingness to rebuild Venezuela's oil infrastructure, analysts remain skeptical about the speed of investment. Trump also warned that other companies were ready to take their place if they were not interested in the rebuilding efforts.

President Trump met with oil executives in Washington on Friday to encourage investment in Venezuela, following the recent seizure of Nicolás Maduro. Trump has suggested investments of at least $100 billion, but no immediate commitments were made. ExxonMobil's CEO stated that Venezuela is currently "un-investable" due to past asset seizures and instability. While executives acknowledged Venezuela's potential due to its vast oil reserves, they emphasized the need for significant changes within the country and a welcoming environment from the government and its people. Trump acknowledged past issues, like the nationalization of assets, but said his administration would work to strike a "deal" with companies to revive the industry.

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.

In January 2026, the US government, under President Donald Trump, declared its intention to control Venezuelan oil sales indefinitely to force political changes in Venezuela. This announcement followed the abduction of Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro and a deal for Venezuela to turn over a significant amount of sanctioned oil to the US. Energy Secretary Chris Wright stated the US needs leverage over Venezuelan oil. Oil company executives are scheduled to meet with President Trump to discuss potential investments in Venezuela. While experts suggest the US government has the power to intervene, geopolitical challenges exist, particularly with the rise of China as a global power, potentially limiting US influence compared to previous interventions like in Iraq.

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.

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.

After suggesting the removal of Venezuela's leader, Donald Trump publicly criticized Colombian President Gustavo Petro, accusing him of drug trafficking and suggesting potential military action. Petro responded by calling for public support and expressing concerns about potential U.S. intervention. Subsequently, Trump initiated a phone call with Petro, which led to a reversal in Trump's stance. Following the call, Trump praised Petro and expressed interest in a future meeting, with a White House visit being planned. The call seemingly de-escalated the tension and alleviated Petro's concerns about possible U.S. action against him.

In January 2026, the US announced its intention to indefinitely control Venezuelan oil. This decision gives the US authority over the country's oil wealth and the ability to dictate how profits are spent. In response, Venezuela's interim leader, Delcy Rodriguez, stated that any oil partnerships with the US must ultimately benefit the Venezuelan people. The announcement and subsequent response highlight ongoing tensions regarding control and distribution of Venezuela's oil resources. The location of the oil fields and refineries were not mentioned in the article. The reasons behind the US decision were also not stated.

Venezuela is open to a potential oil deal with the US, according to interim president Delcy Rodríguez, despite strained relations. This comes as the US, under Donald Trump's administration, asserts control over Venezuelan oil resources. JD Vance stated Venezuela can only sell oil if it benefits US interests. The US plans to manage Venezuelan crude sales, potentially influencing global oil prices. Trump announced a deal to access up to $2 billion of Venezuelan crude and declared that Venezuela will only buy US-made products with the profits. The US aims to control all oil transport in and out of Venezuela through approved channels, raising concerns about US influence over global oil supplies.

Following recent events in Caracas, the US government is recognizing Delcy Rodríguez, a Chavista revolutionary and former deputy to Nicolas Maduro, as the leader of Venezuela's interim authorities. This decision has raised questions, as opposition leader María Corina Machado is widely believed to have won the 2024 presidential elections. Some experts suggest the Trump administration chose Rodríguez for stability, fearing potential infighting within the opposition and alienating Maduro's supporters. Trump dismissed Machado as "not respected" while describing Rodríguez as "gracious." Some speculate Rodríguez may have been involved in Maduro's removal, given her survival and the speed of the transition. Analysts suggest the US prioritized maintaining the existing power structure over supporting a complete regime change.

Donald Trump announced that Venezuela will be "turning over" $2 billion in crude oil to the United States. Trump stated the funds from the sale, controlled by him, would benefit both the Venezuelan and US people. The deal could divert Venezuelan oil supplies away from China, Venezuela's top buyer since US sanctions in 2020. The agreement follows the capture of Nicolás Maduro by US forces and demands for US access to Venezuela's oil industry. US Energy Secretary Chris Wright will oversee the transfer of oil from ships to US ports. Currently, Chevron is the only company exporting Venezuelan oil to the US under a US authorization, shipping between 100,000 and 150,000 barrels per day. It is unclear if Venezuela will have access to the proceeds due to existing sanctions.

In an interview with Al Jazeera on January 7, 2026, Venezuela's former opposition leader Juan Guaido denounced acting president Delcy Rodriguez. Guaido, who was previously backed by the US, accused Rodriguez of being a dictator and a cartel leader. The denouncement comes after Guaido declared himself interim president in 2019 following Nicolas Maduro's second term inauguration. The interview provides insight into the ongoing political tensions within Venezuela and the continued opposition to the current leadership. Guaido's accusations highlight the deep divisions and power struggles that persist in the country.

Following the capture of Nicolás Maduro, the US, under Donald Trump, will reportedly receive up to 50 million barrels of Venezuelan oil, with the possibility of continued supply and eased sanctions to allow indefinite sales. Trump aims to control the revenue, selling up to $3 billion worth of Venezuelan crude into the global market, potentially driving down oil prices. Global oil prices initially fell on Wednesday in response to the news. This move could disrupt Venezuela's oil exports to China, which currently receives 80% of its crude, potentially increasing tensions between the US and China, who criticized the action as a violation of international law. Trump stated that the US Energy Secretary will oversee the deal, ensuring the oil is directly transported to US ports.

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.

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.

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.

Following the capture of Nicolás Maduro by U.S. forces, Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado has pledged to return to Venezuela "as soon as possible." Speaking from abroad after receiving the Nobel Peace Prize, Machado expressed concern over an escalating internal crackdown by the current regime, including the detention of journalists and persecution of those supporting U.S. actions. She cited a sweeping executive order signed by Maduro before his capture that mandates the persecution of Venezuelans who support Trump’s actions. Machado emphasized the need for close monitoring of the situation by the United States and the Venezuelan people to ensure a successful transition. She also criticized Vice President Delcy Rodríguez, who was sworn in as the new leader, deeming her unfit to lead any transitional authority.

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 threats from U.S. President Donald Trump against Colombian President Gustavo Petro, Colombian Foreign Minister Rosa Yolanda Villavicencio stated that Colombia would respond militarily to any foreign aggression. Her warning came after a U.S. military attack on Venezuela that resulted in deaths and the abduction of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro. Trump, who described the Western Hemisphere as his sphere of influence, accused Petro of producing and selling cocaine to the U.S. Villavicencio emphasized Colombia's right to self-defense under international law. She is scheduled to meet with U.S. leaders amidst rising tensions in the region.

Donald Trump predicts that US oil companies will invest billions in Venezuela to revitalize its oil production within 18 months after Nicolás Maduro's removal. However, industry experts are skeptical, citing the need for US government guarantees to offset the high risks and costs associated with rebuilding Venezuela's damaged oil infrastructure. Major US oil companies like ExxonMobil, ConocoPhillips, and Chevron have not confirmed any investment plans. Analysts estimate it could take at least three years to significantly increase production, with initial efforts focused on securing contracts and reconstruction before any meaningful output increase. Experts suggest that while interest in Venezuelan oil exists, the appetite for heavy investment remains low due to the country's uncertain future.

Following a hypothetical military operation removing Nicolás Maduro from power in Venezuela, President Trump claims US oil companies could be operational there within 18 months. He suggests the companies would be reimbursed for their investments by the US government or through revenue generated. Trump believes increased Venezuelan oil production would benefit the US by lowering oil prices. However, analysts are skeptical, citing the need for a stable government, the high costs involved, and the time required to restore Venezuela's oil output. Chevron, the only US firm currently operating in Venezuela, stated it remains focused on employee safety and compliance with regulations. Venezuela possesses the world's largest proven oil reserves, but its production has declined significantly.

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, former Colombian President Ivan Duque Marquez stated that Colombia could play a supporting role in Venezuela's transition following the abduction of Nicolas Maduro. This statement comes amidst escalating tensions between the United States and Colombia. US President Donald Trump has accused the Colombian government of producing and selling cocaine to the United States and has threatened military action against Colombia. The article highlights the potential for Colombia to contribute to a resolution in Venezuela while also acknowledging the existing conflict between Colombia and the US. The context of the statement is the political instability in Venezuela and the strained relationship between Colombia and the United States.

Following the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro by the U.S., acting President Delcy Rodríguez shifted from a confrontational stance to a more diplomatic one. On Sunday, January 4, 2026, Rodríguez invited the U.S. government to engage in a cooperative agenda focused on shared development and coexistence, despite previously accusing the U.S. of invading Venezuela. This statement followed a fiery speech where she demanded Maduro's return after his capture. While the U.S. President Trump threatened Rodríguez if she didn't "do what's right," her recent statement notably omitted any demand for Maduro's release. The Venezuelan Supreme Court declared Rodríguez the country's acting president.

In Venezuela, acting president Delcy Rodriguez held a meeting with the country's cabinet ministers on January 5, 2026, following the abduction of Nicolas Maduro. Rodriguez has indicated her openness to collaboration with the United States. In response, former U.S. President Donald Trump issued a warning, stating that there would be serious consequences if Rodriguez does not cooperate. The meeting and Trump's statement highlight the uncertain political situation in Venezuela and the potential for international involvement. The reasons for Maduro's abduction were not mentioned in the article.

Following the U.S. capture of Nicolás Maduro in January 2026, Delcy Rodríguez, a longtime political confidante, became Venezuela's interim leader. The Venezuelan Supreme Court declared her acting president after Maduro's removal. Rodríguez, 56, has Marxist roots and entered Venezuelan politics after the 2002 coup attempt against Hugo Chávez. She rose through government ranks under both Chávez and Maduro, holding positions such as communication minister, foreign affairs minister, and vice president. She also took on responsibility for the country's finances as the economy minister. While she has fostered a shift towards a more free-market economy and protected the oil industry, Venezuela continues to struggle with hyperinflation. She now faces the challenge of navigating relations with the U.S. and a distrustful Venezuelan public.

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 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.

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.

Delcy Rodríguez, Venezuela's Vice President, was sworn in as interim leader in January 2026. She is known for her leftist background as the daughter of a Marxist guerrilla and her rapid rise in Nicolás Maduro's government. Despite her leftist credentials, Rodríguez has cultivated relationships with Venezuela's business community and foreign investors, spearheading market-friendly economic reforms after the country's economic crisis. While President Trump stated that Rodríguez had been sworn in as Venezuela’s new president, Rodríguez and Maduro's supporters maintain that Maduro is still the legitimate leader. She rose to prominence after Maduro became president in 2013, holding positions such as communications minister and foreign affairs minister.