What's happened
The U.S. military has seized Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, citing narcoterrorism charges. Vice President Delcy Rodríguez condemned the operation as an invasion, asserting Maduro remains Venezuela's legitimate leader. The U.S. plans a transitional government with international backing, escalating tensions in the region.
What's behind the headline?
The recent U.S. military operation in Venezuela signals a decisive shift in regional power dynamics. The capture of Maduro, despite his claims of legitimacy, indicates a clear U.S. strategy to reshape Venezuelan leadership under the guise of regime change. The regional response, led by Vice President Rodríguez, underscores ongoing resistance and the risk of escalating conflict. The operation's framing as a guardianship suggests the U.S. aims to install a compliant interim government, likely backed by international oil interests. This move will deepen regional instability, provoke diplomatic confrontations, and challenge the sovereignty claims of Maduro's regime. The broader implications include increased U.S. influence in South America and potential repercussions for global oil markets, given Venezuela's resource wealth. The story underscores the ongoing contest for influence in the Western Hemisphere, with Venezuela at its epicenter, and foreshadows prolonged instability in the region.
What the papers say
The New York Times reports that the U.S. claims Maduro and his wife were captured on narcoterrorism charges, framing the operation as a necessary intervention. Conversely, the NY Post highlights Venezuela's strong condemnation, with Vice President Rodríguez calling it an invasion and emphasizing Maduro's continued legitimacy. Both sources reveal contrasting perspectives: the U.S. sees it as a strategic move to restore order, while Venezuela views it as an illegal aggression aimed at resource seizure. The New York Times emphasizes the regional and geopolitical stakes, whereas the NY Post underscores the resistance and sovereignty issues, illustrating the deep divide in narratives surrounding this unprecedented military action.
How we got here
The U.S. has long sought to influence Venezuela's leadership due to its vast oil reserves and regional strategic interests. Tensions escalated after Maduro's government faced accusations of mismanagement and corruption. Recent military actions mark a significant shift, with the U.S. asserting control and planning a transitional government, amid regional and international reactions.
Go deeper
Common question
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Nicolás Maduro Moros is a Venezuelan politician serving as president of Venezuela since 2013. His presidency has been disputed by Juan Guaidó since January 2019, although Maduro is the real president.
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Delcy Eloína Rodríguez Gómez (born 18 May 1969) is a Venezuelan lawyer, diplomat, and politician who has served as the acting president of Venezuela since 3 January 2026, after the United States captured and de facto removed President Nicolás Maduro f
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