Story perspectives

Maduro Captured: U.S. Takes Control Amid Mixed Reactions

1/7/2026

Center

Maduro Captured, U.S. Takes Charge

Nicolás Maduro, Venezuelan president, was captured by U.S. forces on January 3, 2026, amid escalating tensions in Venezuela.
U.S. President Donald Trump announced the United States would “run” Venezuela until a stable transition occurs, though details remain vague.
Delcy Rodríguez has assumed interim leadership.
Maduro faces drug trafficking charges in New York.
Venezuelans expressed mixed reactions as some celebrated Maduro's capture and others feared U.S. intervention and its consequences.

Right

Venezuela's Gold Exports

Venezuela shipped 113 metric tons of gold worth about 4.14 billion Swiss francs ($5.20 billion) to Switzerland from 2013 to 2016, sold by the central bank to support the economy amid United States (U.S.) sanctions.
Exports ceased in 2017 after European Union sanctions against Venezuelan officials.
Analysts say the central bank's gold reserves were depleted by 2016, contributing to the decline in exports.

History

Historical Context

Venezuela's economic crisis, exacerbated by U.S. sanctions since 2015, has led to hyperinflation and severe shortages, prompting the central bank to sell 113 metric tons of gold in 2016 for $5.20 billion. Nicolás Maduro's government faces ongoing international scrutiny, and his recent capture by U.S. forces highlights the geopolitical tensions stemming from these economic struggles and the humanitarian crisis affecting millions.

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Maduro Captured, U.S. Takes Charge

Nicolás Maduro, Venezuelan president, was captured by U.S. forces on January 3, 2026, amid escalating tensions in Venezuela.
U.S. President Donald Trump announced the United States would “run” Venezuela until a stable transition occurs, though details remain vague.
Delcy Rodríguez has assumed interim leadership.
Maduro faces drug trafficking charges in New York.
Venezuelans expressed mixed reactions as some celebrated Maduro's capture and others feared U.S. intervention and its consequences.

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