President Donald Trump says the United States will now “run” Venezuela after claiming Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro was captured during a US military operation that struck Caracas early Saturday.
Speaking at a press conference on Saturday, January 3, Trump praised the US military and said the US would control the country “until such time as we can do a safe, proper and judicious transition.” He said the goal is to prevent Venezuela from falling back into the same situation it has faced for years.
Trump later posted on Truth Social confirming US involvement in the strikes. He also claimed Maduro was taken out of Venezuela вместе with his wife, Cilia Flores.
Trump said major US oil companies are ready to enter Venezuela, invest billions of dollars, and repair damaged oil infrastructure. He argued this would help Venezuela make money again.
He also warned the US is prepared to launch a second, “much larger” attack if needed. However, he suggested a follow-up may not be necessary because the first operation was “so successful.”
In an interview with Fox News, Trump said the mission was delayed because the weather was not ideal. He claimed Maduro was captured inside a house “more like a fortress,” and said a few US personnel were injured but are expected to recover. Trump also said he watched the capture happen live, comparing it to watching a television show.