what did the president of venezuela do

Nicolás Maduro, the president of Venezuela, was captured by U.S. military forces in a large-scale overnight strike on January 2-3, 2026. President Donald Trump announced that Maduro and his wife were flown out of the country, with the U.S. planning to temporarily run Venezuela until a transition occurs.

Key Events

This dramatic raid followed months of escalating tensions, including U.S. accusations of Maduro leading a "narco-terrorist" regime and prior indictments. Explosions rocked Caracas, rendering Venezuelan military powerless as U.S. forces executed the operation. Trump emphasized goals of peace and justice for Venezuelans during a press conference.

Reactions from Leaders

Opposition figure María Corina Machado hailed it as "the time for freedom," urging recognition of Edmundo González Urrutia as the legitimate president from the disputed 2024 election. Vice President Delcy Rodríguez demanded proof of life for Maduro on state TV. Secretary of State Marco Rubio noted Maduro ignored generous offers and faced prior U.S. justice.

Background Context

Maduro had clung to power since 2013 after Hugo Chávez's death, surviving the contested 2024 vote widely seen as rigged internationally. The U.S. recognized González as victor and imposed sanctions. Recent buildup included U.S. naval presence and strikes on alleged drug boats.

Multiple Perspectives

• U.S. View : Portrays Maduro as a fugitive indicted in 2020 for drug crimes, justifying intervention for stability.

• Venezuelan Opposition : Celebrates as end to tyranny, pushing for prisoner releases and sovereignty restoration.

• Maduro Allies : Demand accountability, framing it as aggression amid prior rhetoric of negotiation.

TL;DR : U.S. forces captured Maduro in a bold raid amid long-standing disputes; reactions split between celebration and outrage.

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.