Overview
- Delta Force operators detained Nicolás Maduro in Caracas early on January 3, according to multiple reports.
- President Trump confirmed U.S. responsibility for the mission and said it was conducted in close coordination with law enforcement.
- Reporting indicates aviation from the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment and extensive electronic warfare were used to counter Venezuelan defenses.
- Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, were transferred to the United States following the operation, according to initial accounts.
- The months‑long effort, referred to as Operation Southern Spear, is linked to an SDNY case and a longstanding $50 million reward, with analysts noting potential political uncertainty in Venezuela.