Did the U.S. just take over the world’s largest oil reserves? In a move that has stunned the globe, U.S. forces have captured Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, in a massive overnight raid on Caracas.
The Facts
The Operation: Codenamed “Operation Absolute Resolve,” the lightning strike involved over 150 aircraft and elite Delta Force units. They breached Maduro’s fortified compound in the dead of night, capturing him before he could reach a safe room.
Trump’s Announcement: Speaking from Air Force One, President Trump declared the mission a total success. He announced that the U.S. now effectively controls Venezuela’s oil riches and plans to bring in American companies to invest billions.
The Warning: Trump issued a blunt ultimatum to interim leader Delcy Rodríguez: cooperate or face the consequences. He also predicted the “fall of Cuba” now that their Venezuelan aid has been cut off.
The “Narco” Charges: Maduro and his wife were immediately flown to New York. They face federal indictments for narco-terrorism and drug trafficking, with a court appearance set for today in Manhattan.
Why It Matters
The world is reacting with a mix of celebration and fury. While many exiles are praising the move, China has issued a sharp condemnation, calling it a “violation of international law” and “hegemonic behavior.”
Adding to the mystery: high-profile opposition leader María Corina Machado has been notably sidelined by the U.S. administration, despite her long-standing fight against the regime.
The big question remains: Is this a liberation of the Venezuelan people, or a global play for oil?