Trump’s other Latin American feud: why Colombia’s Petro is not Maduro

In early Saturday morning, U.S. Army helicopters carrying Delta Force commandos executed a raid in Caracas, Venezuela, targeting President Nicolás Maduro. The operation, codenamed Absolute Resolve, involved over 150 aircraft launched from 20 regional bases, supported by a cyberattack and radar-evading fighter jets. As the helicopters approached Maduro's location, they encountered gunfire, and one Chinook helicopter was hit, injuring the pilot. Despite the close call, the mission's success remained uncertain as the damaged helicopter struggled to stay airborne. President Trump, who described the operation as perfectly executed, has grown more confident in using military force for foreign policy objectives. He threatened similar action against Venezuela's interim leader if she resists U.S. directives.

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 US military's abduction of Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro in January 2026, Democrats in Congress are vowing to introduce a war powers resolution to check President Trump's military actions. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer announced the party will push for a vote on the resolution within the week. Experts argue the attack on Venezuela represents a clear example of presidential overreach and a violation of both the US Constitution and the UN Charter. Despite these arguments, the resolution faces an uphill battle in Congress, which has historically struggled to limit presidential authority on military matters. The situation is considered a critical test of Congress's willingness to reassert its constitutional power to authorize military engagements.

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 the capture and extradition of Nicolás Maduro to the U.S., his son, Nicolás Maduro Guerra, publicly pledged "unconditional support" to Delcy Rodríguez, the newly sworn-in interim president of Venezuela. Maduro Guerra condemned the U.S. action as a "kidnapping" and a threat to global stability. Rodríguez, formerly Maduro's vice president, was sworn in on Monday and has vowed to work with the Trump administration despite objecting to the military action. Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, were captured by U.S. forces in Caracas and are being held in New York on narco-terrorism charges. The U.S. military operation has drawn both praise and condemnation internationally, with China and Russia criticizing the action.

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.

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.

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.

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.

After being apprehended in Venezuela, Nicolas Maduro was brought to New York City to face criminal charges of "narco-terrorism" in a US court. Attorney General Pam Bondi stated that the US actions were legally justified, accusing Maduro of enabling the transport of cocaine to the US. Maduro, who has long denied these allegations, pleaded not guilty. International law experts are questioning the legality of the Trump administration's actions, suggesting potential violations of international statutes governing the use of force. Despite the international concerns, the US maintains its actions were in accordance with US law, and the case proceeds domestically, though the method of Maduro's apprehension raises complex legal questions.

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.

Tensions between the U.S. and Colombia have escalated following U.S. military action in Venezuela. Former U.S. President Trump accused Colombian President Gustavo Petro of being a "sick man" involved in cocaine production and hinted at potential military intervention in Colombia. Petro, a former leftist guerrilla, vehemently denied the accusations and warned that U.S. military action would incite widespread rebellion. He stated he would take up arms again to defend Colombia, despite previously vowing not to. The Colombian defense minister has since reinforced the president's security detail. The dispute highlights a deterioration in relations between the two countries, traditionally allies in the fight against drug trafficking.

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.

In January 2026, Colombian President Gustavo Petro responded strongly to comments made by U.S. President Trump suggesting potential military action against Colombia. Trump accused Petro of involvement in cocaine production and implied the U.S. military could be used against Colombia. Petro stated he would defend himself against any illegitimate violent act and ordered Colombian soldiers to prioritize the Colombian flag over the U.S. flag, while also urging the Colombian people to defend him. The remarks followed the seizure of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro by U.S. forces. Despite the tension, Colombia's defense minister emphasized the continued security cooperation between Colombia and the United States.

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.

Cilia Flores, Venezuela's former First Lady, was captured by US forces along with her husband, President Nicolás Maduro, and will face drug trafficking and weapons charges in a New York court. Flores, 69, is considered a powerful political figure in Venezuela, having previously led the National Assembly and advised Maduro. She met Maduro in the early 1990s while defending Hugo Chávez and other plotters of a failed coup. After Chávez became president in 1998, Flores ascended in politics, leading the National Assembly from 2006 for six years. Despite presenting a family-oriented public image, Flores is alleged to have been a key advisor to Maduro and has faced accusations of corruption and nepotism.

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani publicly criticized President Trump's actions in Venezuela, marking the first clash between the two since Mamdani took office. On Saturday, January 3, 2026, Mamdani revealed he called President Trump to express his opposition to U.S. strikes in Venezuela and the capture of President Nicolás Maduro. Mamdani stated he told Trump he opposed regime change and violations of international law. Despite past cordiality and a prior meeting at the White House, Mamdani emphasized his duty to represent New Yorkers' interests, even if it meant disagreeing with the president. The White House has not yet commented on the call.

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, Nicolás Maduro, the authoritarian leader of Venezuela, was captured in a U.S. military operation. This action culminated a period of escalating tensions between the U.S. and Venezuela. The Trump administration had increased pressure on Maduro, beginning in March 2020 with a Justice Department indictment on narco-terrorism charges. After a disputed election in July 2024, the Biden administration recognized opposition leader Edmundo González as Venezuela's legitimate leader in January 2025. In July, the Trump administration designated Cartel de los Soles, a Venezuela-based criminal group, as a terrorist organization and identified Maduro as its leader, further authorizing military force against Latin American drug cartels. These events led to the breakdown in U.S.-Venezuelan relations and the effort to remove Maduro from power.