US Captures Nicolas Maduro in Large-Scale Operation, Trump Announces
In a striking revelation, US President Donald Trump declared that Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife have been captured and flown out of Venezuela following a large-scale
strike by the US. The operation reportedly involved American special forces and resulted in a swift and dramatic conclusion to months of rising tension between the two countries.
Background and Context
Maduro, who has been in power for 13 years, is accused by the US of leading a narco state
, suppressing opposition, and holding onto power via elections considered rigged by the international community. The dramatic operation orchestrated by the US to capture Maduro accompanied a large-scale strike against Venezuela, with explosions reported near civilian and military facilities close to the capital, Caracas, according to Al Jazeera English.
Details of the Operation
As per Trump's statement on Fox News, the operation was conducted early in the morning and involved injured soldiers. The operation lasted under 30 minutes, with helicopters and special forces operating inside the capital city. Photos released by Al Jazeera English showed the aftermath of US air strikes in Venezuela. In a call with The New York Times, Trump hailed the operation as brilliant
. However, he refrained from commenting on whether Congress had been consulted prior to the operation.
Reactions and Implications
The capture of Maduro has stirred a range of reactions globally. While some, like Argentina's President Javier Milei, celebrated the news as a step towards freedom, others expressed concern over the audacious operation. Analyst Christopher Sabatini suggested that the operation may have been an inside job and warned that the US now owns the outcome
of the situation.
Certain Balkan states such as Albania and Kosovo applauded the US's actions, while others called for restraint. In the US, House GOP critics raised questions about the legality of the operation, with Representative Thomas Massie questioning the constitutional soundness of the strikes.
Conclusion and Current Status
The captured Maduro and his wife are expected to be taken to the Southern District of New York to face prosecution, as per a pending 2020 indictment. The US administration has not yet released any independent confirmation of Maduro's capture. The Venezuelan Vice President has demanded 'proof of life' of Maduro and his wife. Amid the uncertainty, the world waits to see what will unfold in the aftermath of this unprecedented operation.