Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro being taken into the offices of US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). (Reuters)
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News1804-01-2026, 22:45

Venezuela Activates Armed Forces After US Captures Maduro; Demands Return

  • Venezuelan Defence Minister Vladimir Padrino López activated armed forces nationwide after the US captured President Nicolas Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores in Caracas.
  • López demanded the "immediate return" of Maduro and Flores, calling the US action an "act of aggression" and a "real threat to world order."
  • US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated the US seeks a democratic transition, not war, targeting drug trafficking organizations and enforcing oil sanctions.
  • Rubio defended the capture of Maduro, stating it was the "top priority," and mentioned Trump doesn't rule out occupying Venezuela to maintain "leverage."
  • The US action faced widespread international criticism, with House Democrats calling Trump's regime change policy "unlawful" despite Maduro being a "horrible person."

Why It Matters: Venezuela activates forces, demands Maduro's return after US capture, sparking international outcry.

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