In January 2026, the situation in Venezuela suddenly and dramatically changed. On the 1st, President Maduro sent a signal of détente with the US, confirming a 10-minute phone call with Trump in November 2025, expressing willingness to negotiate on drug prohibition, welcoming American oil investments, and releasing several political prisoners. However, in the early hours of the 3rd, US forces launched a surprise attack on the capital, Caracas, with Delta Force capturing Maduro and his wife and taking them out of the country. During the operation, multiple military key nodes were destroyed, and the tomb of former President Chavez was also bombed.

The Venezuelan government condemned the US invasion and submitted four demands to the United Nations Security Council. Russia, Cuba, and other countries condemned the US military action, while the European Union called for restraint. Some US lawmakers questioned the legality of the operation. Trump is scheduled to hold a press conference on the morning of the 3rd to explain the details. Maduro has already been indicted by the US. Currently, Colombia has closed its land border with Venezuela and entered a state of alert, and the situation in Venezuela remains tense.