Why US attacked Venezuela, 'captured' President Nicolás Maduro
What's the story
The United States has launched a "large-scale strike" on Venezuela, claiming to have captured President Nicolás Maduro. The operation was announced by US President Donald Trump on Truth Social early Saturday morning (ET). "Maduro has been, along with his wife, captured and flown out of the Country. This operation was done in conjunction with US Law Enforcement," Trump wrote. According to CNN, which cited sources, Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, were dragged from their bedroom by elite US forces.
Counter-claim
Venezuela accuses US of targeting civilian, military installations
Venezuela's government has accused the US of attacking civilian and military installations in what it called an "imperialist attack." The whereabouts of Maduro remain unclear, as Trump did not provide further details. The strikes were first heard and seen in Caracas, with explosions and low-flying aircraft reported over the capital.
Escalating tensions
US military presence in region increases
The attack comes after months of escalating pressure by the Trump administration on Maduro, who has been accused of narco-terrorism by the United States. Since August, Washington has ordered a major military buildup off Venezuela's northern coast, including an aircraft carrier and advanced fighter jets. The US military has also been attacking boats in the Caribbean Sea and eastern Pacific since early September.
Diplomatic response
US embassy warns citizens, Venezuela rejects military aggression
The US Embassy in Venezuela has warned American citizens to shelter in place after reports of explosions. Meanwhile, Colombia's President Gustavo Petro called for an emergency meeting of the UN Security Council over the bombings. Iran's Foreign Ministry also condemned the strikes, and Cuban state television showed images of explosions in Caracas.
Legal concerns
Legal basis for strikes questioned, Venezuela's government responds
The strikes have raised questions about their legal basis in the US. Senator Mike Lee called for clarification on what could constitutionally justify such action without a declaration of war or authorization for military force. In response to the attacks, Venezuela's government declared "a state of external disturbance" and ordered all national defense plans to be implemented.