In a dramatic escalation of regional tensions, the United States has carried out large-scale military strikes on Venezuela, with U.S. officials saying Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, have been captured and flown out of the country. The strike marks one of the most significant U.S. military operations in Latin America in decades.
CBS News
Explosions were reported across Caracas early on Saturday, with low-flying aircraft observed over key areas of the city. Multiple military installations, including major bases and strategic sites, were targeted as part of the operation.
EL PAÍS English
U.S. President Donald Trump announced the operation via social media, stating that the strikes were successful and that Maduro would face charges in U.S. courts. Trump indicated that the operation was carried out in conjunction with U.S. law enforcement agencies.
NOTUS
The Venezuelan government immediately condemned the strikes as an act of aggression and declared a national state of emergency. Venezuelan officials called for immediate mobilization of military forces in response to what they described as a violation of national sovereignty.
Vatican News
Reactions from around the world varied, with some governments condemning the U.S. action and others expressing concern over the rapid escalation of the conflict. Venezuelan Vice President Delcy Rodríguez demanded proof of life for the captured president and first lady.
L’Orient Today
The legal basis for the U.S. military action, including whether appropriate congressional authorization was obtained, has not been fully clarified by officials. Some lawmakers expressed surprise at the scale of the operation.
Inquirer.com
Flight restrictions were put in place over Venezuelan airspace by U.S. authorities, and American citizens in the region were warned to shelter in place as the situation unfolded.
Inquirer.com
International observers are calling for restraint and clarification as the conflict continues to develop. The long-term impact of these events on U.S.–Venezuela relations and regional stability remains uncertain.
