Maduro in U.S. Custody: Trump Declares “We’re in Charge”

The United States’ direct intervention in Venezuela reached a historic turning point on Monday, January 5, 2026. Deposed leader Nicolás Maduro was scheduled to appear in a New York federal court following a dramatic U.S. military operation.

The raid, codenamed Operation Absolute Resolve, involved special operations forces and naval blockades. It resulted in the capture of the 63-year-old Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, in Caracas. President Donald Trump signaled a firm stance on the nation’s future, declaring late Sunday, “We’re in charge.”

Interim Leadership Shifts Toward Cooperation

In a significant diplomatic reversal, Venezuela’s interim leader, Delcy Rodriguez, has pivoted away from her initially defiant rhetoric. Following a stern warning from the White House, Rodriguez issued a formal statement offering to collaborate with the Trump administration.

“We extend an invitation to the U.S. government to work together on an agenda for cooperation,” Rodriguez stated on Sunday night.

President Trump clarified his expectations for this new partnership. He emphasized that the U.S. requires “total access” to Venezuelan oil and resources. According to Trump, this access is necessary to rebuild the country’s decaying infrastructure.

International Outcry and Legal Debate

The U.S. military action has sparked intense international debate over sovereignty and international law. Key global reactions include:

• United Nations: The Security Council held an emergency session on Monday at Venezuela’s request.
• China and Russia: Both nations condemned the raid as a “clear violation of international law,” with China demanding Maduro’s immediate release.
• Regional Concerns: Colombian President Gustavo Petro warned that the intervention could trigger a humanitarian crisis across Latin America.

In contrast, some U.S. allies, including Israel and Italy, have voiced strong support for the administration’s decisive actions.

Stability Over “Regime Change”

While Maduro has been removed, the Trump administration has indicated that it is not currently pursuing a total regime change. Secretary of State Marco Rubio noted that Washington is prioritizing a “pliant government” and immediate stability over a radical democratic overhaul.

This approach has left the Venezuelan opposition—led by Edmundo González Urrutia—in an uncertain position.

While González Urrutia acknowledged the importance of Maduro’s removal, he argued that the U.S. intervention must go further by releasing political prisoners and recognizing the 2024 election results.

Current Military and Economic Pressure

Although U.S. ground forces have largely withdrawn, a massive naval presence remains off the Venezuelan coast. This fleet continues to enforce an “oil quarantine,” blocking tankers from leaving the country.

The White House has made it clear that additional military strikes remain an option if the interim leadership fails to meet U.S. demands.