The United States has carried out a “large scale airstrike” on Venezuela, capturing President Nicolás Maduro and his wife and flying them out of the country.
United States President Donald Trump said in a social media post early Saturday morning.
Explosions were heard and smoke could be seen rising in multiple locations across Caracas in the early morning, including at key military facilities, and aircraft were seen flying over the Venezuelan capital.
READ ALSO: Nicolas Maduro Sworn in For Third Term as Venezuelan President
Meanwhile, governments around the world reacted with shock, condemnation, and deep concern following claims by the United States that Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro had been captured during a large-scale U.S. military operation and removed from the country.
The Venezuelan government strongly rejected the U.S. claim, denouncing the operation as an illegal act of military aggression and a flagrant violation of national sovereignty. Senior officials in Caracas disputed Washington’s account and demanded proof that Maduro is alive and in U.S. custody.
State media declared a national emergency and called on allies to rally in defense of Venezuela’s territorial integrity.
Cuba, a long-time ally of Caracas, condemned the operation as a “criminal attack” and accused Washington of reviving Cold War-era interventionism.
Colombia, traditionally aligned with the United States but sharing a long border with Venezuela, called for immediate de-escalation, warning that military action could destabilize the entire region.
Several other Latin American governments expressed concern that the precedent could undermine regional security and diplomatic norms.
Russia condemned the reported capture as a violation of the United Nations Charter and warned that unilateral military actions risk plunging the world into broader conflict.
China urged restraint, stating that efforts to combat crime or corruption cannot justify violating another country’s sovereignty.
Iran echoed those criticisms, accusing Washington of abusing its power and destabilizing international order.
The United Nations and the Organization of American States (OAS) stopped short of endorsing either side, instead calling for restraint, transparency, and urgent diplomatic engagement.
Several European countries, including Spain, signaled willingness to help mediate if talks become possible.
Reaction within the United States itself has been mixed. Supporters of the operation argue it represents decisive action against alleged corruption and narcotics trafficking.
Critics, including members of Congress, have raised questions about the legal basis for the operation and warned of potential long-term consequences.