The international community is abuzz following a bold move by the United States, as President Donald Trump announced the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro by U.S. military forces. The operation, executed in the early hours of Saturday, has sparked debate over its legality and the implications for both nations involved.
The Midnight Operation in Caracas
In a surprise military operation, explosions rocked Venezuela at approximately 2 a.m. local time. General Dan Caine, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, confirmed the strikes. Vanessa Silva, a journalist based in Caracas, shared with NPR’s Carrie Kahn that she was awakened by detonations at the La Carlota airbase, where she observed fires quickly extinguished. Similar events unfolded across military bases in the states of Miranda, Aragua, and La Guaira, according to Venezuelan government reports.
Venezuelan Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino López reported that civilian areas were also affected, with injuries and fatalities being assessed. Vice President Delcy Rodríguez mentioned losses among civilians and service members but withheld specific numbers. In response to the operation, President Trump addressed the nation, stating that while there were injuries among U.S. troops, no lives were lost.
Allegations Against Maduro
The U.S. administration has long accused Maduro of leading a criminal enterprise, specifically a narco-trafficking organization known as Cartel de los Soles. The organization, viewed by experts as a symbol of systemic corruption, was designated a foreign terrorist entity by the U.S. in November. Attorney General Pam Bondi announced that Maduro and his associates face charges of drug trafficking and narco-terrorism, as detailed in an unsealed indictment.
Bondi’s statement on social media described Maduro and his wife as “alleged international narco traffickers,” emphasizing their upcoming trial in New York. The indictment covers allegations dating back to 1999, involving partnerships with international drug networks to smuggle cocaine into the U.S.
Leadership and Future Governance in Venezuela
Following Maduro’s capture, questions arise about Venezuela’s leadership. Trump announced that Vice President Rodríguez has been sworn in as interim president, yet her long-term role remains uncertain. Former acting U.S. ambassador to Venezuela, Todd Robinson, suggested that Maduro’s allies left behind might fill the power vacuum.
Trump has not outlined a specific plan but assured that the U.S. will manage Venezuela until a “proper transition” occurs. He stated, “We’re going to run the country right. It’s going to be run very judiciously, very fairly.” Meanwhile, opposition leader María Corina Machado advocated for Edmundo Gonzalez, acknowledged as the rightful winner of the 2024 elections, to assume the presidency. Gonzalez currently resides in exile in Spain.
International Reactions
The global response to the U.S. operation is mixed. Within the U.S., Democratic leaders criticize the legality of the action, emphasizing the lack of Congressional authorization. Senator Tim Kaine remarked on the constitutional necessity for congressional approval before engaging in military actions.
Conversely, some Republicans in Congress have praised the decision, notably Senate Majority Leader John Thune. In Latin America, countries like Cuba, Chile, and Mexico express concerns over regional stability. Colombia is mobilizing troops to its border with Venezuela, anticipating a potential refugee crisis.
Argentina’s President Javier Milei has openly supported the operation, aligning with Trump’s stance. European leaders, including Kaja Kallas of the European Commission, advocate for restraint, underscoring the importance of adhering to international law. The U.K.’s Prime Minister Keir Starmer confirmed Britain’s non-involvement, reinforcing his commitment to uphold international norms.
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