The capture of Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, following a US military operation, marked a turning point in Venezuela’s recent history.
During the early morning hours of January 3, 2026, explosions, power outages, and military movements were reported in Caracas and other strategic regions of the country.
Hours later, US President Donald Trump confirmed from Florida that the mission had been successful and that both leaders had been captured without any reported casualties among US forces.
As the hours passed, exclusive images from adn Noticias revealed a stark contrast across the country: quiet streets with little traffic, but long lines of people at open supermarkets and grocery stores, as many others remained closed.
Many citizens went out early to buy food, water, and basic necessities; no open clashes were observed.
In some cities outside of Venezuela, groups of people took to the streets to celebrate the president’s downfall. Videos on social media show applause, Venezuelan flags, and slogans against the regime, in scenes that contrast sharply with years of repression and control.
In Mexico City, Venezuelan citizens have begun to take to the streets celebrating the fall of the dictatorship, declaring it an act of justice.
Donald Trump described the intervention as one of the most complex military operations in recent U.S. history. He explained that the operation, dubbed Night Hammer, was planned for months and involved intelligence forces and more than 115 pieces of military equipment, including aircraft and helicopters.
Pentagon officials stated that the capture of Maduro and Flores occurred during the darkest hours of the early morning and that both surrendered without resistance.
Details of the U.S. military operation “Night Hammer” to capture dictator Nicolás Maduro
From Washington, Trump asserted that the United States will remain involved in Venezuela until a peaceful transition is achieved.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed contacts with figures in the current Venezuelan government to prevent a power vacuum and ensure stability. According to the official version, the objective is to lay the groundwork for a new political process.
The U.S. Department of Justice reported that Maduro faces charges of drug trafficking, narcoterrorism, and possession of high-powered weapons in a federal court in New York, while Cilia Flores was named as an alleged collaborator. Both were transported on a U.S. Navy ship.
Source: adn40
