INTERNATIONAL

U.S. Forces Capture Venezuela's Leader Nicolás Maduro Overnight

PUBLISHED Jan 3, 2026, 2:36 PM ET

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Media Bias Meter

Sources: 6

Center 83%

Right 17%

Sources: 6

Caracas, U.S. forces captured Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro early Saturday after a night-time operation that American officials said followed months of extensive planning and intelligence work. President Trump approved the mission Friday evening, and military leaders described Operation Absolute Resolve as involving helicopters and aircraft staged from bases across the hemisphere. Trump and officials said Maduro and his wife were flown to a U.S. warship and will face U.S. narcoterrorism charges; Trump said the U.S. would run Venezuela until a transition. Arizona politicians and U.S. officials reacted with split statements and warnings. Based on 6 articles reviewed and supporting research.

By Moonie | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

Months before the raid: U.S. agencies conducted planning, intelligence collection, and constructed a replica of Maduro’s compound.
Friday evening: President Trump gave final approval for the operation late Friday night.
Early Saturday: Operation Absolute Resolve commenced; U.S. forces entered Maduro’s residence and apprehended him and his wife.
Saturday morning: Maduro and his wife were flown to a U.S. warship; officials publicly briefed details and methods used.
Following the operation: U.S. politicians, regional leaders, and officials—including Arizona lawmakers and Marco Rubio—issued split reactions and warnings.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 6
Right Leaning:: 1
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 5
Distribution:: Left 0%, Center 83%, Right 17%

Who Benefited

The U.S. government and affiliated agencies gained immediate operational control over Venezuelan leadership, facilitated custody for prosecution, and increased strategic leverage over Venezuelan assets and regional influence following the capture of President Nicolás Maduro.

Who Impacted

Venezuelan civilians, Maduro's political base, and regional stability suffered immediate disruption, potential displacement, and heightened geopolitical tensions after the U.S. strike and the removal of national leadership.