Following a significant military operation that captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, Trump has issued a stern warning to the country’s new interim leader Delcy Rodríguez. In remarks to The Atlantic, Trump stated she could face consequences exceeding those facing Maduro if she fails to act appropriately. Maduro is scheduled for a New York court appearance on Monday facing charges related to drug trafficking and weapons offenses.
The United States characterizes Maduro’s former administration as a “narco-terrorist” regime, though Maduro contests these allegations. Saturday’s military strikes in Caracas resulted in Maduro and his wife being apprehended and transported to American custody. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has repeatedly clarified that these actions do not constitute war against Venezuela itself, but rather target criminal organizations.
Trump previously declared the US would manage Venezuelan affairs until a proper transition could occur. He also indicated American oil companies would enter the country to address infrastructure issues and generate revenue. However, Maduro’s political associates maintain control of government functions despite these developments. Cuba reported that 32 of its citizens died in the US operation and declared a two-day national mourning period.
Rubio defended the operation across multiple Sunday television interviews, emphasizing the distinction between military action against trafficking networks and warfare against Venezuela. He noted the US maintains various economic tools, including an oil embargo, to influence Venezuelan policy decisions. The administration will evaluate Venezuela’s conduct through its future actions and responses.
Maduro, who governed since 2013, has faced repeated accusations of suppressing opposition movements through violent methods. The international community widely views his 2024 election victory as illegitimate. His arrest involved a special forces operation that included targeted military strikes. Both Maduro and his wife face weapons and narcotics charges with a scheduled court date Monday.
Rodríguez, now interim leader following Supreme Court swearing-in, will be formally inaugurated Monday in Caracas at 08:00 local time. Rubio avoided confirming US recognition of her legitimacy, instead stating the administration does not recognize the regime as lawful. Trump emphasized that governmental change represents an improvement over existing conditions in Venezuela.
Democratic congressional leaders have expressed serious objections to the operation. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries characterized it as an undeclared military action without congressional authorization. He detailed the operation’s scale, involving Delta Force units, numerous aircraft, and thousands of personnel. Multiple Democrats reported receiving no advance notification from the administration.
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer questioned the legal basis for the operation, arguing that while Maduro represents a negative force, responding to lawlessness through lawlessness sets a dangerous precedent. He warned that American military involvement in regime change historically results in costs to American personnel and resources. Both Schumer and Jeffries announced support for legislation requiring congressional approval for further Venezuelan military actions.
Six regional governments issued a joint statement expressing alarm at the military operation’s threat to regional stability and international law. Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Mexico, Uruguay, and Spain emphasized preference for peaceful diplomatic solutions. They cautioned that external control arrangements contradict international legal norms and jeopardize the region’s political, economic, and social equilibrium.
