U.S. raid captures Maduro; Trump warns interim leader
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Washington — U.S. forces seized Venezuelan president Nicolás Maduro in a raid early Saturday, and President Donald Trump on Sunday warned interim leader Delcy Rodríguez she would pay “a very big price” if she did not cooperate with Washington. Rodríguez was confirmed by Venezuela's Supreme Court and military and condemned the operation as a violation of international law. The Trump administration said it will work with remaining Venezuelan officials if U.S. goals — including access for American investment in oil reserves — are met. Maduro faces federal narcotrafficking charges in New York. Based on 11 articles reviewed and supporting research.
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Timeline
- 1. Jan 3, 2026 — U.S. forces raided Caracas, capturing Nicolás Maduro and his wife.
- 2. Jan 3–4, 2026 — Venezuelan Supreme Court and military confirmed Delcy Rodríguez as interim leader.
- 3. Jan 4, 2026 — Trump told The Atlantic Rodríguez would 'pay a very big price' if uncooperative.
- 4. Jan 4, 2026 — Reports said U.S. aims include access for American oil investment in Venezuela.
- 5. Jan 5, 2026 — Maduro was scheduled to appear in a New York federal court on narcotrafficking charges.
Sources
JQJO Editorial Desk · Human reviewed · AI assisted. Report a correction.
