U.S. military forces have reportedly captured the Venezuelan president following overnight air and naval bombardments on Venezuelan cities and military bases late Saturday. The operation, named Operation Southern Spear, was launched last month and is described by U.S. officials as part of a response to long-standing disputes over regional alliances and oil trade.
According to U.S. sources, the strikes targeted key military installations across the country. The Venezuelan government has condemned the attacks, calling them a violation of national sovereignty.
The Venezuelan president had recently declared victory in the 2024 presidential election, defeating his main rival, Mario, a Nobel Peace Prize laureate. However, the election result has been widely disputed, with opposition groups and international observers accusing the government of election manipulation.
Venezuela had recently formed a defense alliance with the United States while simultaneously expanding commercial cooperation with China. Analysts say this balancing strategy heightened tensions with Washington and may have contributed to the U.S. response.
Military analysts describe the operation as a “long-anticipated reaction,” citing increased U.S. military activity in the region and historical precedents such as the 1989 U.S. invasion of Panama. The Venezuelan government has also been accused of aligning itself with countries considered hostile to U.S. interests.
The future of Venezuela remains uncertain. Reports indicate that tens of thousands of armed militia members, loyal to the president and reportedly well equipped, have been mobilized and could resist any U.S.-backed government established in the country.