Trump Confirms Maduro's Capture and Transfer to New York

On Saturday, President Trump disclosed the dramatic capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro by U.S. forces, describing it as a military action unparalleled since World War II.

Addressing the nation from Mar-a-Lago, Trump announced that the U.S. would govern Venezuela temporarily until a stable and lawful transition can be ensured, however, he stopped short of detailing how long this administration might last.

Trump reassured the public there would be no subsequent bombardment and noted the absence of American casualties in this operation.

Discussing the arrest, Trump explained via a subsequent phone call to 'Fox and Friends' that Maduro was seized from a fortified location, akin to a stronghold.

Further details emerged that Maduro is en route to New York, where Attorney General Pam Bondi reiterated the seriousness of the charges he faces: narcoterrorism amongst others. As Bondi stated, American justice would soon administer its full weight in American courts.

Details of the Indictment and Operation

An earlier 2020 indictment already painted Maduro as an ally to the Colombian revolutionary group FARC, involved in the trafficking of cocaine and armaments to the U.S. Additional charges have been filed by U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton for conspiring to commit narcoterrorism and for dealings in machineguns and other hazardous devices.

Trump detailed that Maduro attempted to retreat into a secure room, laden with steel walls within his residence. Fortunately, swift U.S. actions prevented him from reaching this haven, though extensive preparations, including blow torches, were on standby.

Reflecting on the successful endeavor, the president emphasized the extraordinary nature of having no fatalities, acknowledging that some soldiers received injuries but are expected to recover fully.

Operation Timing and Execution

Trump disclosed that this operation was initially planned to occur four days prior but was postponed due to adverse weather conditions. The operation was swiftly mobilized once conditions improved.