U.S. President Donald Trump announced a major military operation targeting Venezuelan leadership early Saturday. In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump said U.S. forces had captured Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife.
According to sources familiar with the matter, the operation was planned over several months. Officials described it as one of the most complex U.S. missions in recent years. The plan included detailed rehearsals and intelligence coordination.
Elite U.S. troops, including Army Delta Force units, were involved in the mission. Sources said the military built a full replica of Maduro’s safe house. Troops practiced entry tactics to prepare for heavy security.
Intelligence support played a key role in the operation. A small CIA team was reportedly active on the ground since August. The team gathered information on Nicolas Maduro’s daily movements. Sources also said an intelligence asset close to him tracked his location.
Trump approved the operation four days before its launch. Military planners advised waiting for better weather conditions. The final approval was given late Friday night. The mission was named Operation Absolute Resolve.
Trump monitored the operation live from his Mar-a-Lago residence. He later described the mission as unprecedented in scale and execution. Senior advisers remained with him throughout the operation.
The Pentagon had earlier increased its military presence in the Caribbean. Officials said this buildup was part of ongoing regional operations. It included warships, aircraft, and thousands of troops.
During the mission, U.S. aircraft carried out strikes near Caracas. Targets included air defense systems, according to officials. Military sources said only strategic sites were hit.
Special Forces entered Caracas by helicopter during the early hours. Social media videos showed helicopters flying low over the city. One helicopter was reportedly hit but continued flying.
Troops reached Nicolas Maduro’s guarded residence under fire. They breached fortified doors to enter the compound. FBI agents assisted once inside, officials said.
According to military officials, Maduro and his wife surrendered without prolonged resistance. Trump said the Venezuelan leader failed to reach a secure room in time. Some U.S. personnel were injured, but no deaths were reported.
As forces withdrew, they faced additional engagements. By early morning, helicopters had left Venezuelan airspace. Maduro and his wife were taken aboard a U.S. naval vessel.
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Trump later shared an image showing Nicolas Maduro in custody. The situation has sparked global reaction. Questions remain about diplomatic consequences and regional stability.
