The United States has reportedly carried out airstrikes in Venezuela, striking the capital Caracas and other locations early Saturday, according to U.S. statements. Former U.S. President Donald Trump claimed that Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores were captured by U.S. forces and taken out of the country.
Trump said in a post on Truth Social that U.S. forces conducted a “large-scale strike” against Venezuela’s leadership. He said Maduro and his wife were taken into custody in a special operation carried out with U.S. law enforcement and then flown out of Venezuela. Trump also said more details would be shared in a press event later.
Explosions and Chaos in Caracas
Hours before Trump’s announcement, at least seven explosions were heard in Caracas early in the morning, and people reported loud noises and low-flying aircraft over the city. Videos on social media showed smoke rising and power outages in some areas.
Venezuelan Government Response
Venezuelan officials have not confirmed that Maduro or his wife were captured. Venezuela’s Defence Minister, Vladimir Padrino López, condemned the U.S. action, calling it the “worst aggression” the country has faced and said that all military forces were being mobilized. He urged calm and resistance among the population.
Background
The United States has frequently criticized Maduro’s government and accuses it of corruption, election fraud, and aiding drug trafficking. Tensions between the two countries have been high for months, with diplomatic and political pressure increasing before Saturday’s events.