Former U.S. President Donald Trump has claimed that the United States conducted a “large-scale strike” against Venezuela, resulting in the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife.
In a statement posted on his Truth Social platform, Trump announced that Maduro and his spouse were “flown out of the country” in an operation coordinated with U.S. law enforcement agencies.
Trump wrote:
“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.”
He added that further details would be provided during a news conference scheduled for 11:00 a.m. EST at Mar-a-Lago, his Florida residence. However, Trump did not disclose operational details, Maduro’s current location, or offer verified evidence of the alleged capture.
The Venezuelan government has not confirmed the claim, and no independent verification from U.S. authorities has been issued at the time of reporting.
The United States has long accused Maduro of involvement in international drug trafficking, and Washington had previously announced a $50 million reward for information leading to his arrest.
Recent U.S. military movements in the region had fueled speculation about potential action against Maduro’s government, with analysts suggesting such a move could encourage internal defections.
Trump later reiterated the timing of the press conference on Truth Social, stating it would take place at 11:00 a.m. EST (16:00 BST).
