In a dramatic january 2026 operation, US Special Forces captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and transported him to New York to face narco-terrorism charges. President Donald Trump announced that the United States would “run” Venezuela temporarily, specifically targeting the country’s massive oil infrastructure for repair and management by major US companies. While Trump claims the occupation will be self-funded by oil revenue, the intervention has drawn sharp international condemnation as an act of “rank imperialism” from leaders in Latin America and US Democrats. Despite Maduro’s capture, the political situation remains volatile as Venezuelan officials, including Vice-President Delcy Rodríguez, have vowed defiance and refuse to recognize the US-imposed authority.
Date: January 4, 2026. Source: theguardian.com