U.S. President Donald Trump has claimed that he ordered a daring and secret military operation to detain Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores. According to Trump, the mission took place early Saturday at 4:21 a.m. U.S. local time, and details were first shared on his social media platform, Truth Social.
Though the raid appeared sudden, sources say it was months in planning. U.S. special forces, including Delta Force and other elite units, practiced extensively using a full-scale replica of Maduro’s safe house. A small CIA team had been stationed in Venezuela since August to gather intelligence on the president’s movements. Reports indicate a close aide of Maduro was prepared to provide exact information on his location.
The operation received final approval just four days before execution. On Friday night, at 10:46 p.m. Eastern Time, President Trump gave the green light for “Operation Absolute Resolve.” U.S. forces mobilized a large fleet in the Caribbean region, including a carrier, 11 combat ships, over 150 aircraft such as F-35 and F-22 jets, and approximately 15,000 personnel.
During the air raids, U.S. special forces entered Caracas under the cover of darkness. According to CNN sources, Maduro and his wife were captured directly from their bedroom. Trump claimed that the steel doors of the heavily secured residence were breached in seconds.
Seven hours after the operation, Trump released a photo showing Maduro blindfolded and handcuffed. Reports later confirmed that the plane carrying Maduro landed near New York at the Stewart Air National Guard base. From there, he was transferred under FBI and DEA custody to Manhattan.
According to U.S. media outlets, Maduro is being prepared for a federal court hearing on charges related to drug trafficking and arms smuggling. The operation has caused a global stir, drawing reactions from governments, international organizations, and analysts concerned about regional stability.
The raid highlights the scale and coordination of U.S. military and intelligence forces. Officials describe it as a combination of meticulous planning, precise execution, and advanced technology. Observers note that such operations carry high risk due to the potential for military resistance and civilian impact.
International responses have been swift. Many countries condemned the U.S. intervention as a violation of sovereignty. Meanwhile, U.S. officials defended the operation, stating it was necessary to secure Maduro and ensure accountability for alleged criminal activity.
The arrest of Maduro and his wife marks a significant escalation in U.S.-Venezuela relations. Analysts warn that the political and security implications could affect the Caribbean region, international diplomacy, and global perceptions of U.S. military reach.
While the operation reportedly succeeded without U.S. casualties, it underscores the ongoing tensions and the potential for conflict escalation. Both regional and global observers are closely monitoring the aftermath of the mission, including legal proceedings and the reaction of Venezuelan forces and civilians.
President Trump emphasized that the raid was carefully executed with minimal risk to U.S. personnel, demonstrating the capability and coordination of American forces. The operation is expected to continue making headlines as authorities prepare for federal legal proceedings and assess further political consequences.