Shockwave in Caracas: US Strike Captures Maduro, Trump to Detail Operation

In a dramatic escalation of tensions, President Donald Trump announced early Saturday that the United States conducted a 'large-scale strike' against Venezuela, resulting in the capture of President Nicolas Maduro and his wife.

The announcement followed reports of explosions in Caracas and low-flying aircraft near the Port of La Guaira. Witnesses described plumes of smoke and a large fireball lighting up the night sky[1]. Trump stated on social media that Maduro and his wife were 'captured and flown out of the Country,' with more details promised at an 11 a.m. news conference[1][2].

Details of the operation are emerging: GOP Senator Marco Rubio indicated Maduro will stand trial in the U.S., with no further military action expected in Venezuela[1]. This comes amid longstanding U.S. grievances over Venezuelan seizure of American oil, land, and assets, as referenced in Trump's prior social media warnings[1].

Associated Press is covering Trump's live press conference, confirming the strike's extraordinary nature as an nighttime operation announced hours after the attack[2]. Patrols have intensified around key sites like the Port of La Guaira in response to the blasts[1].

The developments mark a stunning turn in U.S.-Venezuela relations, with global implications pending further official statements.