U.S. Launches Operation Absolute Resolve, Captures Venezuelan President Maduro

On 3 January 2026 the United States carried out a surprise military operation, dubbed “Operation Absolute Resolve,” against Venezuela. The strike hit key military sites in and around Caracas, resulting in the capture of President Nicolás Maduro and First Lady Cilia Flores, who were taken to the United States. At the same time a U.S. naval blockade was imposed to prevent Venezuela from exporting its oil.

Following the operation the former vice‑president, Delcy Rodríguez, was named acting president, leaving most of Maduro’s regime structures intact. The Trump administration justified the action as a fight against “narco‑terrorism,” but many analysts argue that oil interests and broader geopolitical influence were the main drivers. The intervention has reignited debate over U.S. foreign policy in Latin America and echoes historic doctrines of regional dominance.