At a Glance
- The U.S. launched a ‘large-scale strike’ on Venezuela early Saturday.
- President Nicolás Maduro was captured and flown out of the country.
- Explosions and low-flying aircraft rattled Caracas, prompting mass panic.
Why it matters: The event marks a dramatic escalation in U.S.-Venezuelan tensions and has plunged the capital into chaos.
The United States carried out a coordinated attack on Venezuelan targets on January 3, 2026, claiming that President Nicolás Maduro was seized and removed from the country. The strike triggered widespread explosions and low-flying aircraft over Caracas, sending residents into panic and forcing evacuations around the Miraflores presidential palace.
US Strike and Capture
The U.S. described the operation as a ‘large-scale strike’, targeting both civilian and military sites according to Venezuelan officials. Maduro was reportedly flown out of the country after months of intensified pressure from Washington. The government alleges that the U.S. attack caused significant damage to infrastructure and civilian areas.
Chaos in Caracas
- Explosions were heard near the Miraflores presidential palace.
- National Guard armored vehicles blocked avenues leading to the palace.
- Pedestrians, soldiers, and presidential guard members were seen evacuating or guarding the area.
- Residents fled buildings and streets in panic as low-flying aircraft passed overhead.
International Reactions
Venezuelan authorities accused the U.S. of violating international law by attacking civilian and military sites. The U.S. has not released further details on the operation or the fate of Maduro.
Key Takeaways
- The U.S. strike on Venezuela captured President Nicolás Maduro and caused widespread chaos in Caracas.
- Explosions and low-flying aircraft disrupted daily life and prompted mass evacuations.
- The incident deepens the already strained U.S.-Venezuelan relationship, with accusations of international law violations.
The incident underscores the volatility of the region and the high stakes of international military actions.
