US Capture of Nicolas Maduro 2026: A Regional Geopolitical Earthquake

Latin America’s geopolitical landscape just shifted overnight. On January 3, 2026, U.S. forces captured Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro following what has been described as a 'large-scale strike' on the South American nation. The shock operation, confirmed by AFP, has sent shockwaves through the continent, particularly in neighboring Colombia.

US Capture of Nicolas Maduro 2026: Regional Chaos Looming

The Colombian government, led by President Gustavo Petro, hasn't hesitated to condemn the military action. In a post on X, Petro slammed the attack on Venezuela's sovereignty and ordered the mobilization of forces to secure the 2,219-kilometer border. Analysts warn that the power vacuum left by Maduro's deposition could ignite a security crisis.

The most immediate threat comes from the National Liberation Army (ELN), Colombia’s largest remaining rebel group. Elizabeth Dickinson of Crisis Group International notes a 'high risk' of ELN retaliation against Western targets within Colombia. The group has long benefited from ties with Maduro's administration, using the border for its transnational criminal operations.

Refugee Crisis and Financial Shortfalls

Colombia is also bracing for a massive influx of refugees. While nearly 3 million Venezuelans have already settled in Colombia, the infrastructure to support new arrivals is crumbling. Following the Trump administration's decision to shutter USAID programs last year, Colombia has lost roughly 70 percent of its humanitarian funding.