The Political Situation Following the Arrest of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro

The name of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro returned to the world spotlight after a major event that shook the stability of Latin America in early January 2026.

The United States military operation targeting Caracas not only changed the political map of Venezuela, but also triggered strong reactions from many countries and had a real impact on the lives of civilians.

This situation has brought Venezuela into the most critical phase in its modern political history. This article will discuss the latest chronology, the global response, and its impact on Venezuelan society.

The Arrest of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro

On January 3, 2026, the US launched a military operation titled “Absolute Resolve” which directly targeted the capital Caracas.

In this operation, more than 150 fighter jets were deployed to disable Venezuela's air defense system. The airstrikes caused partial power outages in several strategic areas, including the government center.

A US military helicopter landed at President Nicolas Maduro's residence around 2:00 a.m. local time. In less than 30 minutes, the mission was declared complete.

Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, were arrested on charges of involvement in a drug trafficking network known as Cartel of the Suns. Both of them were then taken to New York to undergo legal proceedings.

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US Reaction and Trump's Claims

US President Donald Trump publicly praised the operation as the most effective demonstration of American military power in decades.

Trump stated that the US would temporarily "control" Venezuela until a transition of power was deemed safe. He also mentioned the possibility of a ground troop presence and US involvement in managing Venezuela's oil resources.

On the other hand, Venezuelan Vice President Delcy Rodríguez, who is now acting president, strongly condemned Maduro's arrest and called it an illegal kidnapping that violates international law.

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Immediate Impact on Venezuelan Citizens

Following the military operation, Venezuela immediately declared a state of national emergency. Explosions were reported at several strategic locations, including La Guaira and Fuerte Tiuna.

Tensions are rising, electricity and communications are disrupted, and economic activity is paralyzed in many areas. For civilians, this situation creates fear and uncertainty.

Many families chose to stay home, schools were closed, and queues for basic necessities grew longer. The already severe humanitarian crisis has worsened due to political instability.

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Condemnation from Latin America

Latin American countries reacted strongly to the US action. Brazilian President Lula da Silva called the operation an overreach and a potential threat to create a world dominated by violence, not multilateralism.

Colombian President Gustavo Petro expressed deep concern and stressed the importance of peace and human dignity.

Mexico highlighted the serious threat to regional stability, while Cuba even called the operation a form of state terrorism.

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The Response of the World's Global Powers

International reactions also came from major countries of the world.

Countries that strongly condemned:

- Russia called the operation an armed aggression.

- China admitted to being shocked by the blatant use of force.

- Iran called it a flagrant violation of international law.

Meanwhile, European and Western Allied responses:

The European Union, through Kaja Kallas, acknowledged that the legitimacy of Maduro's government was indeed questionable, but continued to emphasize the importance of respecting the UN Charter.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez and French President Emmanuel Macron are pushing for de-escalation and opening the door to a democratic transition.

The UK has a different stance. Prime Minister Keir Starmer has openly expressed no sympathy for Maduro's downfall, although he continues to call for long-term stability.

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Global Impact and the Risk of a Dangerous Precedent

UN Secretary-General António Guterres warned that this incident could set a dangerous precedent for the world order.

Many international legal experts consider the operation a violation of state sovereignty because it was carried out without the approval of the UN Security Council or the US Congress.

Global protests erupted, particularly from the Venezuelan diaspora in various countries. The greatest concern was the escalation of the conflict, which could spread and drag other regions into instability.

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Conclusion

The latest situation involving Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro marks a new, tense chapter in global politics.

The US arrest of Maduro has not only shaken Venezuela, but also sparked a major debate about sovereignty, international law, and the future of democracy in Latin America.

For Venezuelans, the impact is very real: uncertainty, a deepening economic crisis, and fear for their country's future.

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FAQ

What happened to Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro?

Maduro was arrested by the US military in Operation “Absolute Resolve” and is currently being held in New York for legal proceedings.

Who is leading Venezuela today?

Vice President Delcy Rodríguez was appointed acting president.

Is this US operation legitimate under international law?

Many experts and countries consider the operation to be a violation of sovereignty and international law because it was carried out without a UN mandate.

How will this impact Venezuelan citizens?

Residents are experiencing fear, power outages, a worsening economic crisis, and increasing social uncertainty.

Does this conflict have the potential to escalate?

Yes, many parties are worried that this action could set a dangerous precedent and trigger regional and global instability.