United States captures Nicolás Maduro in Venezuelan military operation

On January 3, 2026, United States special forces conducted a military operation in Caracas, Venezuela, known as ‘Operation Absolute Resolve’. The operation resulted in the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Lícia Flores. During the mission, several of Maduro’s bodyguards were killed.

Following the abduction, Delcy Rodríguez assumed power, supported by Jorge Rodríguez, Diosdado Cabello, and Vladimir Padrino López. The United States administration, under President Donald J. Trump, cited the Monroe Doctrine as a justification for the intervention, asserting the Americas should remain within the U.S. sphere of influence.

The operation has significant geopolitical implications, particularly for China. As a major trading partner with Venezuela, the Chinese government has expressed concerns regarding increased American involvement in Latin America. The sudden shift in Venezuelan leadership also raises questions regarding the status of Russian and Chinese military equipment previously acquired by the Venezuelan government.