U.S. Forces Capture Venezuelan Dictator Maduro Without Casualties, Trump Declares

President Donald Trump described U.S. forces’ capture of Venezuelan dictator Nicolas Maduro on Saturday as “genius” and “incredibly well organized,” stating that American personnel suffered only minor injuries during the operation in Caracas.

The president detailed the mission, which he claimed was executed under near-total darkness with heavy resistance encountered but successful completion. Trump noted Maduro did not reach a fortified area of his residence before being apprehended by U.S. forces, describing the Venezuelan leader’s attempt to enter the structure as “bum-rushed” due to preparedness.

Trump dismissed criticism from Democrats regarding congressional authorization for the strike, labeling critics “weak” and accusing them of seeking to deflect from alleged policy failures in the United States. He claimed the operation was part of a broader effort to combat drug trafficking, stating that interdicted vessels prevent tens of thousands of deaths linked to fentanyl and other narcotics.

The president also indicated U.S. forces were prepared for a “second wave” of action but deemed it unnecessary after Maduro’s capture. Trump mentioned his personal conversation with Maduro a week prior, during which he urged the Venezuelan leader to surrender—a request Maduro refused.

Trump warned that Maduro loyalists face a bleak future in Venezuela, suggesting public support for the regime has collapsed and demonstrations in Caracas included individuals waving American flags. He added that U.S. companies would gain significant involvement in Venezuela’s oil industry, emphasizing American energy dominance and stating he maintains “a very good relationship” with Chinese President Xi Jinping.

The president confirmed Maduro and his wife were taken into U.S. custody and being transported aboard the USS Iwo Jima to New York for potential indictments. Trump reiterated that Maduro had “killed a lot of people,” including those in his own country, to maintain power.

Despite concerns from lawmakers over constitutional authority for the strike and risks of prolonged U.S. involvement in Venezuela, Trump asserted the operation sends a clear message: “We’re not going to be pushed around as a country anymore.”