On January 3, 2026, the United States carried out a high-stakes military operation in Venezuela that led to the capture of President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores.
The mission, officially called Operation Absolute Resolve, was described as a carefully planned strike involving elite U.S. forces, advanced air power, and real-time intelligence support.
Background: Why the Conflict Escalated?
Relations between the United States and Venezuela had remained tense for more than a decade. According to U.S. authorities, Maduro’s government was accused of:
- Corruption and authoritarian governance
- Human rights violations
- Involvement in international drug trafficking
Operation Overview :
The mission was conducted in the early hours of January 3 under the name Operation Absolute Resolve and involved a coordinated military and intelligence effort:
• Precision airstrikes and electronic warfare to disable Venezuela air defenses.
• Deployment of more than 150 U.S. aircraft, including bombers, fighter jets, drones, and helicopters.
• Ground action led by Delta Force, one of the most elite units in the U.S. Army
• Support from intelligence agencies, including the CIA (Central Intelligence Agency) for detailed planning and real-time information.
The goal was to overwhelm defenses around Caracas and isolate Maduro before loyal forces could organize a response.
How Maduro Was Captured ?
According to official reports and international media coverage:
The U.S. forces struck Maduro’s fortified location at around 1 a.m. local time. The defenders were caught off guard, and despite some resistance, Maduro was unable to reach a secure safe room. He and his wife surrendered and were taken into custody.
They were transported first to a U.S. naval vessel and later to New York, where they faced criminal charges.
The joint operation combined air power, electronic warfare, and special forces insertion to overwhelm Venezuelan defenses and secure Maduro’s compound in Caracas.
Casualties and Aftermath :
The operation resulted in heavy losses:
- Dozens of Venezuelan and allied security personnel were reported killed
- Several civilians also lost their lives during the strikes
- U.S. forces reported injuries but no confirmed fatalities
The operation triggered international debate over legality and sovereignty, drawing criticism from allies of Maduro and raising questions at the United Nations.
International Response :
Global reactions were divided:
- Several countries condemned the operation as a violation of Venezuela’s sovereignty.
- Others remained cautious or indirectly supportive, citing allegations against Maduro
- The issue was discussed at the United Nations, focusing on legality and global security norms
The operation deepened diplomatic tensions, particularly in Latin America.
Political Impact :
With Maduro in U.S. custody, Venezuela’s interim leadership faced the challenge of stabilizing the country. The capture sparked both celebrations from the opposition and protests from Maduro’s supporters. The long-term effects on Venezuelan politics and U.S.–Latin America relations were still unfolding.
Conclusion
The capture of Nicolás Maduro marked one of the most dramatic geopolitical events of recent times. The operation highlighted how modern conflicts rely more on intelligence, precision strikes, and special forces rather than large-scale wars. At the same time, it raised serious questions about international law, sovereignty, and the future balance of power in the region.
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