UPDATE: In a stunning development, Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro was captured during a U.S. military operation over the weekend, igniting global debate and raising urgent questions about the future of Venezuela. Maduro is set to make his first court appearance on Monday, October 16, 2023, in New York City, facing serious charges including narco-terrorism, cocaine importation, and machine gun possession.
The operation, announced by President Donald Trump on Saturday, was described by Attorney General Pam Bondi as a mission that required “months of coordination, detailed planning, and seamless execution.” Bondi emphasized that the mission aimed to combat large-scale narcotics trafficking that has fueled violence and instability in the region, directly contributing to the drug crisis affecting American lives.
Following the announcement, Venezuelan Vice President Delcy Rodriguez, now acting as president, condemned the arrest as “barbaric” and called for Maduro’s immediate release. In a bold statement, Trump issued a warning to Rodriguez, stating, “If she doesn’t do what’s right, she is going to pay a very big price, probably bigger than Maduro.”
Democratic lawmakers are expressing concern over Trump’s assertion that the U.S. will “run” Venezuela, questioning the potential costs to American taxpayers and the implications of a long-term military presence in the nation. Secretary of State Marco Rubio defended the operation but clarified that the U.S. is not at war with Venezuela, rejecting any notions of a takeover.
Rubio stated, “We expect to see changes in Venezuela — long-term and short-term.” He emphasized that U.S. involvement is directly tied to national interests, highlighting the urgent need for transformative actions in Venezuela.
As the situation unfolds, Rubio and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth are scheduled to provide a classified briefing to lawmakers later today, indicating that more critical developments may be on the horizon.
This unprecedented operation not only raises questions about Venezuela’s political future but also highlights the complex dynamics of U.S. foreign policy in Latin America. The international community is closely monitoring the repercussions of Maduro’s capture and the potential impact on Venezuelan citizens who have faced years of turmoil.
Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops.
