U.S. Military Captures Nicolás Maduro in Groundbreaking Operation
In a stunning turn of events, the United States executed a military operation early Saturday morning to apprehend Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores. The operation, dubbed “Operation Absolute Resolve,” was the culmination of months of planning and took just 150 minutes to carry out, marking a significant moment in modern international relations.
Why It Matters
This unprecedented military intervention highlights the escalating tensions between the U.S. and Venezuela, particularly in light of ongoing allegations surrounding the Maduro administration’s involvement in narco-terrorism. The successful capture of Maduro signals a bold shift in American foreign policy, raising questions about the future of U.S.-Venezuela relations and the broader implications for Latin America.
Key Developments
- Operation Absolute Resolve commenced around 2:00 a.m. local time in Caracas.
- U.S. military helicopters engaged in airstrikes at multiple locations, including Fuerte Tiuna, Venezuela’s largest military complex.
- Maduro and Flores were captured as they attempted to flee into a fortified safe room.
- Both are now in custody in New York, facing serious narco-terrorism charges.
- Heavy security is in place around the detention center where they are being held.
Full Report
Details of the Operation
The operation began at approximately 2:00 a.m. local time, when U.S. forces initiated air strikes targeting key military installations in Caracas. President Trump later described the situation as “dark and deadly,” indicating the extensive planning that preceded the strikes. The intention was to disable Venezuela’s air defenses, allowing U.S. helicopters to reach their targets unhindered.
According to Gen. Dan Caine, the U.S. military maintained the element of surprise throughout the operation. Explosions were reported around the city, and the attack led to visible destruction, including bombed structures at Fuerte Tiuna.
Capture of Maduro and Cilia Flores
At roughly 2:01 a.m., U.S. Army Delta Force troops gained entry to the compound where Maduro and Flores were located. General Caine indicated that the couple surrendered without resistance but attempted to escape into a heavily fortified room within the compound. Trump’s account detailed the couple’s frantic efforts to reach the safety door, which they failed to secure before U.S. troops intervened.
Transportation to the U.S.
Following their capture, Maduro and Flores were airlifted approximately 2,100 miles to New York. Initially taken to the USS Iwo Jima for processing, they were later flown to Stewart Air National Guard Base before being transported by helicopter into Manhattan. Images circulated showing Maduro under heavy guard, handcuffed and wearing protective gear.
Charges Faced
Upon arrival in New York, both Maduro and his wife were charged with multiple offenses, including conspiracy to commit narco-terrorism and the unlawful possession of machine guns. Attorney General Pam Bondi assured that they would face “the full wrath of American justice,” thereby underscoring the serious nature of the legal proceedings they are now set to confront.
Context & Previous Events
This operation follows years of tumultuous relations between the U.S. and Venezuela, marked by accusations of drug trafficking and repression under Maduro’s regime. The Venezuelan government has long been criticized for its handling of the economy and human rights violations, which heightened the stakes for this military intervention.
