Overview
- U.S. officials say a large-scale operation with airstrikes around Caracas captured Nicolás Maduro and Cilia Flores, who were flown toward New York to face criminal charges.
- President Donald Trump called the mission a success, hinted at a possible larger follow-up, and said U.S. companies would assume control of Venezuela’s oil sector during a U.S.-directed transition.
- UN Secretary-General António Guterres voiced deep alarm, warned the action risks violating international law and the UN Charter, and pressed for full legal compliance.
- UN human rights chief Volker Türk urged moderation, prioritization of civilian protection, and an inclusive political dialogue grounded in human rights and the rule of law.
- Venezuela condemned the strikes as brutal and unjustified and, alongside other states, pressed for the Security Council meeting backed by Russia and China, as leaders including Brazil’s Lula and Spain’s Sánchez demanded de-escalation.