UPDATE: In a dramatic turn of events, Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro was captured in a U.S. military operation over the weekend, prompting urgent discussions among lawmakers back in the U.S. Capitol. Maduro is set to face serious charges, including narco-terrorism and machine gun possession, during his first court appearance on Monday, October 9, 2023, in New York City.
This significant operation, confirmed by Attorney General Pam Bondi, involved months of meticulous planning and coordination across federal agencies. Bondi stated, “The mission was conducted to support an ongoing criminal prosecution tied to large-scale narcotics trafficking… that has fueled violence and contributed directly to the drug crisis claiming American lives.”
President Donald Trump announced Maduro’s capture early Saturday, calling it a pivotal moment in addressing the Venezuelan crisis. In stark contrast, Delcy Rodriguez, currently acting as Venezuela’s president, condemned the arrest as “barbaric” and demanded Maduro’s immediate release.
Trump issued a stark warning to Rodriguez, suggesting severe consequences if she does not act appropriately. “If she doesn’t do what’s right, she is going to pay a very big price, probably bigger than Maduro,” he said during an interview with The Atlantic.
As immediate reactions unfold, Democratic lawmakers express concerns regarding Trump’s assertion that the U.S. will “run” Venezuela, raising questions about potential financial ramifications for American taxpayers and the possibility of a prolonged military presence in the country.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio defended the operation, clarifying that the U.S. is not at war with Venezuela but is involved to protect its national interests. “We expect to see changes in Venezuela,” Rubio stated. “The most immediate changes are the ones that are in the national interest of the United States.”
Lawmakers are scheduled for a classified briefing on the matter on the evening of Monday, October 9, led by Rubio and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. The ongoing developments highlight the urgent implications for both U.S. foreign policy and the future of Venezuela as the world watches closely for the next steps in this unfolding crisis.
As the situation continues to evolve, the political ramifications and humanitarian impact on the Venezuelan people remain critical issues for international observers and U.S. officials alike. Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops.
