In the largest U.S. military operation since the 2003 Iraq War, American forces launched a massive aerial assault on Caracas between Friday night and Saturday morning, resulting in the capture of President Nicolás Maduro and the deaths of at least 40 people.

The New York Times reports that the operation, aimed at apprehending Maduro, involved heavy bombardment of the Venezuelan capital. The casualties include both military personnel and civilians, while vast areas of the city remain without power.

Details of the Assault

According to U.S. officials, the operation began with a large-scale mission to neutralize Venezuela's air defense systems. More than 150 U.S. aircraft were deployed to clear the skies, allowing military helicopters to safely land ground troops near Maduro's location.

Following the raid, President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, were detained and immediately flown to New York.

Trump: "A Powerful Display"

President Donald Trump confirmed the military action on Saturday, describing the operation as a "powerful and impressive display." He asserted that the United States would maintain control over Venezuela until a "safe and prudent" political transition is established.

"We cannot risk leaving power in the hands of those who do not understand Venezuela's interests," Trump stated.

The President also signaled that Washington plans to manage Venezuela’s vast oil reserves, with intentions to facilitate the sale of Venezuelan petroleum to international markets.

Legal Charges and International Backlash

While the White House and Pentagon have not yet released official casualty figures, federal prosecutors for the Southern District of New York unsealed an indictment on Saturday.

The charges against Maduro and Flores include conspiracy to import cocaine into the United States, among other criminal allegations.

However, the unilateral move has sparked immediate controversy:

• Legal Scrutiny: Critics argue the invasion is a flagrant violation of international law and was executed without U.S. Congressional approval.
• Regional Instability: Analysts warn that this unprecedented direct intervention—the first of its kind since the Iraq War—risks destabilizing the entire Latin American region.

The situation in Caracas remains tense as U.S. forces continue to secure key installations and the international community reacts to the sudden collapse of the Maduro administration.