US Military Action in Venezuela: Why Washington Targeted President Nicolas Maduro

The United States carried out large scale military strikes in Venezuela in early January 2026 and claimed to have captured President Nicolas Maduro. The operation, announced by US President Donald Trump, marks the most direct American intervention in Venezuela in decades and has triggered global concern over sovereignty, oil politics and regional stability.

Why in the News?

The US launched air and special forces operations in Caracas. President Donald Trump claimed Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro was captured and taken to the United States.

What Happened in Venezuela?

Explosions were reported across Caracas as US aircraft struck military installations. Power outages followed in parts of the city. Washington later confirmed that US special forces seized Nicolas Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores, transporting them to a US Navy vessel and then to the United States for detention.

Why Did the US Target Maduro Now?

The Trump administration accused Maduro of leading a “narco-terrorist regime” involved in drug trafficking. The US also alleged that Venezuela’s 2024 elections were rigged. Rising sanctions, oil tanker seizures and military pressure in the Caribbean preceded the strike, indicating a planned escalation rather than a sudden decision.

Role of Oil in the Conflict

Oil appears to be a central factor. Venezuela holds the world’s largest proven oil reserves. Donald Trump openly stated that American oil companies would return to Venezuela. Critics argue the intervention is driven by energy interests rather than democracy or security concerns.

Who Is Governing Venezuela Now?

The situation remains unclear. Venezuelan authorities rejected US claims and termed the action a “kidnapping.” Vice President Delcy Rodriguez was named interim president by a Venezuelan court. The government declared a state of external disturbance, deployed troops and mobilized pro-government militias in key areas.

Legal and International Concerns

International law experts questioned the legality of capturing a sitting foreign head of state without a UN mandate or declared war. The UN Secretary General warned of a dangerous precedent. Russia and China condemned the action as a violation of sovereignty, while the UN Security Council scheduled an emergency meeting.

Background of US Venezuela Relations

Relations between the United States and Venezuela have remained tense for years due to sanctions, oil disputes and political differences. Washington has repeatedly supported regime change efforts, while Caracas has accused the US of economic warfare and interference.

Key Summary at a Glance

Aspect	Details
Why in news?	US claims capture of Nicolas Maduro
Operation location	Caracas, Venezuela
US justification	Narco-terrorism, election rigging
Oil factor	Venezuela’s vast oil reserves
Global reaction	UN concern, Russia–China condemnation

Venezuela – Key Facts

Location: Northern coast of South America

Capital: Caracas

Bordering Countries

• Guyana (East)
• Brazil (South)
• Colombia (West and Southwest)

Maritime Boundary: Caribbean Sea and Atlantic Ocean (North)

Terrain

• Andes Mountains and Maracaibo Lowlands (Northwest)
• Central Plains (Llanos)
• Guiana Highlands (Southeast)

Major Rivers

• Orinoco River (shared with Colombia)
• Rio Negro (shared with Colombia and Brazil)

Question

Q. Venezuela is most significant globally because it holds the world’s largest reserves of which resource?

A. Gold
B. Natural Gas
C. Oil
D. Lithium