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U.S. Military Captures Maduro in Controversial Operation

1/9/2026

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Summary

Maduro Captured in Raid

The U.S. military captured Nicolás Maduro, the former Venezuelan president, and Cilia Flores, Maduro's wife, during Operation Absolute Resolve.
The operation involved a raid on their residence.
President Donald Trump’s administration claims the operation was legal, citing a new Justice Department memo.
A Senate resolution is advancing to require congressional approval for any military action in Venezuela.

Summary

Maduro's Cartel Claim Reversed

The U.S. Department of Justice retracted its claim that Nicolás Maduro led the "Cartel de los Soles," a key justification for removal.
The revised indictment, issued after Maduro's capture, describes a "patronage system" rather than a cartel.
Experts say "Cartel de los Soles" is slang for corrupt officials, not a structured organization.
Despite this, Secretary of State Marco Rubio continues to label it a real cartel.

History

Historical Context

Nicolás Maduro became Venezuela's president in 2013 during a period of severe political and economic crisis, sparking widespread protests. In 2020, the U.S. Justice Department labeled him a drug trafficker, justifying military actions against him. This reflects ongoing U.S. interventionist policies in Latin America, reminiscent of the 1989 invasion of Panama, potentially reshaping U.S.-Venezuela relations.

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Maduro Captured in Raid

The U.S. military captured Nicolás Maduro, the former Venezuelan president, and Cilia Flores, Maduro's wife, during Operation Absolute Resolve.
The operation involved a raid on their residence.
President Donald Trump’s administration claims the operation was legal, citing a new Justice Department memo.
A Senate resolution is advancing to require congressional approval for any military action in Venezuela.

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