In the early hours of January 3rd, 2026, the United States launched a large-scale military operation in Venezuela. The operation, which included both airstrikes and a ground operation, led to the capture of President Nicolas Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores.
Maduro and Flores were taken into U.S. custody to face federal criminal charges and were subsequently transported to New York City.
His arrest followed his re-election in 2024, which many saw as an illegitimate election with a lack of transparency.
Venezuela’s opposition party claimed that their candidate, Edmundo Gonzales Urrutia, received a majority and called for independent verification. Maduro defended his re-election and refused to relinquish power.
The President’s arrest has raised serious questions about Venezuela’s governance, with President Donald Trump stating that he will oversee the country until a proper transfer of power takes place.
Venezuelans across the world are now celebrating as the leaders’ arrest has sparked feelings of hope and the possibility of long-awaited change in the country, whilst others remain uncertain about what the development could mean for the country.