US Capture Maduro in Venezuela: What You Need to Know About the 2026 Military Operation

On January 3, 2026, the United States launched a significant military operation called “Absolute Resolve” that dramatically altered the geopolitical landscape of Latin America. This operation involved large-scale strikes on Caracas and surrounding areas, leading to the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores. This unprecedented event has generated intense discussion about U.S. foreign policy, international law, and regional stability. In this article, we will explore the details, implications, and key questions surrounding this historic event.

What Was Operation “Absolute Resolve”?

Operation “Absolute Resolve” was initiated early on January 3, 2026, involving coordinated aerial and military strikes against key targets in Caracas. The operation was framed by U.S. officials as a judicial extraction meant to apprehend Maduro and his wife, but it featured rapid military engagements including explosions, low-flying aircraft, and helicopter assaults. The operation resulted in the arrest of the Venezuelan leaders, who were swiftly helicoptered onto a U.S. warship and transported to New York for arraignment. The strikes also caused significant civilian casualties, with at least 40 deaths, including 32 Cuban security personnel involved in defending the regime.

Key Players and Their Roles in the Venezuela Crisis

U.S. Leadership and Strategic Goals

• President Donald Trump: Announced the operation via Truth Social, emphasizing national security and economic interests, particularly in recovering oil assets and dismantling cartels.
• Vice President JD Vance: Broke a 50-50 Senate tie to approve the operation, signaling strong congressional support.
• Secretary of State Marco Rubio: Vowed to impose new sanctions against Maduro’s regime, calling it “intolerable.”
• Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth: Taunted Russian weapons systems, hinting at a broader strategic posture.
• DOJ Office of Legal Counsel: Issued a memo claiming the operation was within domestic constitutional authority and not subject to international war declaration.

Venezuelan Figures and Opposition

• Nicolas Maduro: Captured and arraigned on charges including narco-terrorism, conspiracy to import cocaine, and possession of machine guns.
• Cilia Flores: Maduro’s wife, also detained and facing similar charges.
• Delcy Rodríguez: Vice President, likely involved in a power-sharing arrangement as Maduro’s health or control waned.
• Vladimir Padrino López: Defense Secretary, possibly part of a transitional government.
• Opposition leaders like María Corina Machado and Edmundo González Urrutia: Dismissed by Trump as lacking legitimacy, with allegations of electoral fraud in recent votes.

Legal and Political Fallout

The operation faced immediate congressional scrutiny. The Senate vote on a war powers resolution was narrowly rejected, with Vice President JD Vance casting the deciding vote, thus affirming Trump’s authority to proceed without additional congressional approval. The GOP majority, bolstered by lobbying efforts, rejected the notion of requiring a formal declaration of war, asserting that the action was within constitutional bounds.

This has sparked debate over the legality of unilateral military interventions—especially without UN or OAS endorsement—and raised questions about presidential war powers in the age of autonomous executive action.

Implications for International Law and Global Politics

The Biden administration’s critics argue that the operation violates the UN Charter’s principles of sovereignty and non-interference. Many international bodies and Latin American nations have condemned the action, viewing it as a pretext for regime change.

Meanwhile, the operation has significant repercussions for global geopolitics:

• Oil Markets: The U.S. plans to “run” Venezuela temporarily to rebuild oil infrastructure and recover assets, impacting global oil supply and prices.
• Russia and China: These nations have substantial investments and military support in Venezuela. The operation may lead to frozen loans, abandoned projects, and increased shadow fleet activity.
• U.S.-Russia Tensions: The intervention could escalate tensions linked to Ukraine and broader strategic competition.

What Comes Next?

The U.S. aims to oversee a transitional government that includes Maduro loyalists like Vice President Delcy Rodríguez and Defense Secretary Vladimir Padrino López, rather than opposition figures, indicating a focus on stabilizing and controlling Venezuela’s oil wealth. However, the long-term stability of this approach remains uncertain, with the potential for persistent cartel activity, civil unrest, or regime continuity under Maduro’s supporters.

FAQs About the Venezuela Operation

1. Was the U.S. legally justified in capturing Maduro?

According to the U.S. government, the operation was within domestic legal authority, citing a memo from the DOJ’s Office of Legal Counsel. Critics argue it violated international law and sovereignty.

2. How has Russia responded to the U.S. intervention?

Russia, which has significant military and economic ties to Venezuela, is expected to react with diplomatic protests, potential troop or weapons support to Maduro loyalists, and increased shadow military activity.

3. What does this mean for U.S.-Latin America relations?

This bold intervention may strain relationships with regional allies who view it as an interference or violation of sovereignty, possibly prompting economic or diplomatic repercussions from Latin American nations and international organizations.

4. Could this lead to full-scale war?

While currently limited to targeted strikes and arrests, the escalation of military involvement always carries the risk of broader conflict, especially if Maduro or supporting groups retaliate or if Russia and other powers get involved.

5. What are the economic implications for global oil markets?

The U.S. plans to rebuild and control Venezuela’s oil industry may lead to short-term volatility but could stabilize supply in the long run if successful, affecting global oil prices and investments.

Conclusion: A Turning Point or a Precedent?

The 2026 U.S. operation in Venezuela marks a significant shift in how unilateral military actions are conducted and justified. While it aims to stabilize regional security, it raises profound questions about legality, sovereignty, and the future role of superpowers in Latin America. As events unfold, international observers and regional stakeholders will be watching closely to see whether this intervention leads to a stable transition or fuels further instability.

Stay informed about the evolving situation and consider the implications for global geopolitics and energy markets. For more insights into international conflicts and regional stability, check our articles on global security strategies and international diplomacy.