BREAKING: The United States has launched a large-scale strike against Venezuela, capturing President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, in a stunning nighttime operation that unfolded early Saturday. President Donald Trump announced the developments on social media just hours after the attack, confirming a dramatic escalation in U.S. efforts to remove the Maduro regime.
Multiple explosions shook Caracas, the Venezuelan capital, as low-flying aircraft targeted key military and government installations. The Venezuelan government swiftly condemned the assault, labeling it an “imperialist attack,” and called on its citizens to take to the streets in protest.
Trump’s announcement came at approximately 4:30 a.m. ET on July 15, 2023, with a news conference scheduled for later this morning at 11 a.m. ET. The implications of this operation are profound, marking a potential turning point in U.S.-Venezuelan relations and the future of the South American nation.
The U.S. has accused Maduro of using Venezuela as a front for drug trafficking and terrorism. In 2020, he was indicted on narcoterrorism charges, along with several key members of his regime. $55 million in rewards had been offered for Maduro and four others connected to his administration, which the U.S. Justice Department described as a criminal enterprise.
U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau declared the military action a “new dawn for Venezuela,” stating, “the tyrant is gone.” He confirmed that Maduro is in U.S. custody and will face trial on the charges against him. Further, Senator Marco Rubio emphasized that Maduro’s regime lacks legitimacy, reinforcing the administration’s stance on the matter.
In a related development, Colombian President Gustavo Petro convened a national security meeting following the strike. He expressed concerns about a possible influx of refugees from Venezuela, urging the United Nations Security Council to address the situation as an aggression against Latin America.
Meanwhile, Russia condemned the U.S. action, calling it an “act of armed aggression.” The Russian Foreign Ministry warned that Venezuela must be allowed to determine its own future without foreign military intervention. They have called for dialogue to de-escalate tensions and pledged solidarity with the Venezuelan people.
The U.S. State Department has also issued a travel alert for Americans in Venezuela, advising them to “shelter in place” due to the ongoing situation. The warning comes amid reports of explosions and escalating unrest in the capital.
In a chilling response, Venezuelan Vice President Delcy Rodríguez demanded proof of life for Maduro and Flores, stating, “We do not know the whereabouts of President Nicolás Maduro and First Lady Cilia Flores.” This demand underscores the uncertainty and chaos that now envelops Venezuela.
The world watches closely as this situation develops. The ramifications of this military action could reshape the political landscape in Venezuela and beyond. As Trump prepares to address the nation, the question remains: what comes next for the beleaguered nation and its people? Stay tuned for updates as this story unfolds.
