The United States has successfully apprehended Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro and his wife, transporting them out of the country following a military operation, according to President Donald Trump. This development comes amid calls for restraint from the European Union.
In a statement on Truthsocial.com, President Trump announced, “The United States of America has successfully carried out a large-scale strike against Venezuela and its leader, President Nicolas Maduro, who has been, along with his wife, captured and flown out of the country. This operation was done in conjunction with U.S. Law Enforcement. Details to follow.”
This “grab and snatch” operation by U.S. special forces followed a series of attacks on Venezuelan ships, which the United States claimed were involved in drug trafficking activities.
Spain has urged for de-escalation, moderation, and respect for international law in Venezuela, as stated by the Spanish Foreign Ministry in an official communication.
Despite these actions, the United States is not officially at war with Venezuela, nor is there any congressional approval for military intervention, political analysts have noted.
Republican Senator Mike Lee expressed his concerns on x.com, stating, “I look forward to learning what, if anything, might constitutionally justify this action in the absence of a declaration of war or authorization for the use of military force.”
President Trump has characterized the operation as a ‘law enforcement’ action. The U.S. has previously conducted a similar operation in Panama under comparable circumstances.
In response, Venezuela has called for an emergency meeting of the UN Security Council to address the U.S. strikes and discuss the whereabouts of President Nicolas Maduro.
(Colombo/Jan03/2025)
