What's happened
The US has announced it captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro in a military operation, with President Trump stating the US will 'run' Venezuela until a 'safe, proper, and judicious transition.' UK officials have expressed uncertainty and called for a peaceful transfer of power, emphasizing the importance of international law.
What's behind the headline?
The US's unilateral action in Venezuela signals a shift towards more aggressive interventionism in Latin America, bypassing traditional diplomatic channels. The operation's legality remains contested, with US officials citing Article II of the Constitution to justify the action, while critics argue it breaches international law. The UK's cautious response underscores the complexity of the situation, emphasizing the need for a peaceful transition. The potential power vacuum in Venezuela risks destabilizing the region further, with implications for global oil markets and regional security. The US appears to be positioning itself for a prolonged presence, with Trump suggesting the US will 'run' Venezuela until a stable government is established. This move could set a precedent for future interventions, raising questions about sovereignty and international norms. The broader geopolitical context involves US-Russia tensions, with reports of Maduro's possible presence in Russia, and regional opposition from Colombia's President Petro, who condemned the US action as an assault on sovereignty. Overall, this event marks a pivotal moment in US-Latin America relations, with uncertain long-term consequences for regional stability and international law.
What the papers say
Sky News reports that UK officials, including Darren Jones, expressed uncertainty about the US operation's legality and emphasized the importance of international law, while noting the UK was not involved or informed beforehand. The Guardian highlights the UK's call for a peaceful transition and skepticism about the US's legal justification. The Independent details Trump's statements about running Venezuela temporarily and the regional implications, including regional opposition and concerns over sovereignty. The Times of Israel and The Mirror provide additional context on Trump's claims of a 'judicious transition' and the potential for US military involvement, emphasizing the unprecedented nature of the operation and its regional destabilization risks.
How we got here
The operation follows longstanding tensions over Venezuela's political legitimacy and US accusations of Maduro's regime being a narco-state. The US's move to capture Maduro marks a significant escalation, with previous US interventions in Latin America and ongoing disputes over Venezuela's oil reserves. The UK and other nations have called for a peaceful transition, emphasizing adherence to international law.
Go deeper
Common question
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What is happening in Venezuela right now?
Recent developments in Venezuela have shocked the region and the world. The US has announced it is taking control of the country following the capture of President Nicolás Maduro. This unprecedented move raises many questions about the current situation, regional stability, and what might happen next. Below, we explore the key details and answer the most common questions about this crisis.
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How Did US Forces Capture Maduro in a Night Raid?
The recent US military operation in Caracas that resulted in the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has raised many questions. How did the US manage to carry out such a precise night raid? What details are known about the operation? And what does this mean for international relations? Below, we explore the key aspects of this high-stakes military action and answer the most common questions surrounding it.
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What Are the Latest International Reactions to the US Taking Control of Venezuela and the Libya Plane Crash?
Recent events in Venezuela and Libya have sparked widespread international reactions and raised questions about regional stability. The US's intervention in Venezuela and the tragic plane crash involving Libya's military leader are shaping global discussions. Here, we explore what experts and governments are saying about these developments and what might come next for these volatile regions.
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Why Did the US Intervene in Venezuela in 2026?
In early 2026, the US took unprecedented action by intervening directly in Venezuela, capturing President Maduro and asserting control over the country. This move has sparked widespread questions about US foreign policy motives, regional stability, and the legal implications of such an intervention. Many are asking: what prompted this bold move, and what does it mean for international relations moving forward? Below, we explore the key questions surrounding this dramatic development.
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Who Will Lead Libya After the Plane Crash? What’s Next for Venezuela and Maduro?
Recent events in Libya and Venezuela have sent shockwaves through the region. The death of Libya’s military leader in a plane crash raises questions about the country’s future leadership, while the US’s dramatic capture of Venezuela’s Maduro has sparked international debate. Here’s what you need to know about these unfolding stories and what they mean for regional stability and global politics.
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Donald John Trump is an American politician, media personality, and businessman who served as the 45th president of the United States from 2017 to 2021.
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Sir Keir Rodney Starmer KCB QC MP is a British politician and former lawyer who has served as Leader of the Labour Party and Leader of the Opposition since 2020. He has been Member of Parliament for Holborn and St Pancras since 2015.
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Marco Antonio Rubio is an American attorney and politician currently serving as the senior United States Senator from Florida. A Republican, Rubio previously served as Speaker of the Florida House of Representatives.
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Venezuela, officially the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, is a country on the northern coast of South America, consisting of a continental landmass and many small islands and islets in the Caribbean Sea.
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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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Darren Paul Jones is a British Labour politician serving as Chair of the House of Commons Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy Committee since 2020. He has been the Member of Parliament for Bristol North West since 2017. Jones also runs Labour Digital