Nicolás Maduro Captured by U.S. Delta Force Nicolás Maduro, Venezuela's president, was captured in a daring early morning raid on January 3, 2026, by the U.S. Army's elite Delta Force unit. This operation marked a major escalation in U.S.-Venezuela tensions, with President Donald Trump confirming the strike and Maduro's transfer aboard the USS Iwo Jima to face U.S. charges.

Operation Details

Delta Force executed the mission amid explosions in Caracas, targeting Maduro and his wife at a military site like Fuerte Tiuna. Trump announced their capture via Truth Social, likening it to the 1989 Noriega raid in Panama.

U.S. officials cited Maduro's alleged role in drug trafficking via the Cártel de los Soles and FARC ties as justification.

Residents reported aircraft overhead and blasts from 2 a.m., with the Venezuelan government claiming oil resource grabs.

Historical Context

This mirrors past U.S. interventions, exactly 35 years after Noriega's arrest—another ex-ally turned drug suspect. Prior U.S. efforts, like a failed 2025 pilot bribe plot, fell short.

Maduro faced 2020 U.S. indictments for narco-terrorism, escalating under Trump's 2025 reelection.

Trending Reactions

  • U.S. Support : Forums buzz with praise for decisive action against Maduro's regime, tied to migration and crime links.
  • Critics : Some decry it as overreach or "war crimes," fearing oil motives amid Venezuela's crisis.
  • Venezuelans : Videos show celebrations tearing down Maduro posters, signaling opposition joy.

"The United States of America has successfully carried out a large scale strike against Venezuela and its leader." – President Trump

Multiple Viewpoints

Pro-capture voices highlight Maduro's indictments and humanitarian relief potential. Skeptics question Delta Force's legality without UN backing and warn of Latin American backlash. Neutral analysts note it as Trump's boldest foreign move since 2025 inauguration.

TL;DR : Delta Force captured Maduro in a U.S. strike on Jan 3, 2026; he's en route to NYC court amid global buzz.

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