US President Trump Shares Image of Captured Venezuelan Leader Maduro

United States President Donald Trump has released the first photograph of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro following his capture during a military operation conducted by US forces. The image, which was shared on Trump’s Truth Social platform, depicts Maduro handcuffed and blindfolded aboard the USS Iwo Jima.

The operation took place on Saturday night, reportedly involving a raid on Maduro's residence located on a military base in Venezuela. Alongside Maduro, his wife, Cilia Flores, was also apprehended. Both were subsequently transported to a US warship, which is en route to New York. Upon arrival, they are expected to face federal charges related to a conspiracy involving narco-terrorism.

According to reports, the military operation was preceded by a significant strike on Venezuelan territory, leading to explosions in the capital, Caracas, and other areas. Maduro's government has condemned the actions of the US as an imperialist attack and an egregious act of military aggression. In response to the operation, the Venezuelan government declared a state of emergency and has called on citizens to protest against the US intervention.

During an appearance on the television programme "Fox and Friends Weekend", President Trump detailed the circumstances of Maduro’s capture. He noted that Maduro had been residing in what he described as a fortress-like presidential palace, which included a security room reinforced with steel. Trump stated that US forces were prepared to breach the fortified location using heavy equipment if necessary. He claimed that the operation was executed under the cover of darkness, with US forces turning off nearly all lights in Caracas to ensure stealth.

Trump asserted that the raid lasted less than 30 minutes, with multiple explosions marking the event. Venezuelan Vice President Delcy Rodríguez reported that both civilians and soldiers were killed during the operation. However, Trump minimised US casualties, stating that only a few personnel were injured.

The dramatic developments in Venezuela come amidst ongoing political turmoil in the country, where Maduro has faced accusations of corruption, human rights violations, and mismanagement of the economy. His capture marks a significant moment in US-Venezuelan relations, which have been fraught with tension over the past several years.

The international community is closely monitoring the situation, with implications that extend beyond Venezuela’s borders. Analysts suggest that the capture of Maduro could lead to further instability within the region, as well as potential repercussions for US foreign policy in Latin America.