Trump Venezuela Military Intervention 2026: Maduro in Custody as Successor Warned

One leader is headed to a New York courtroom; the other is under the barrel of a chilling ultimatum. On January 5, 2026, President Donald Trump sent a stark message to Venezuela's interim president, Delcy Rodríguez, warning she could "pay a very big price" if she fails to align with Washington's interests. This comes as Nicolás Maduro is set to appear in court following a dramatic US special forces operation.

Inside the Trump Venezuela Military Intervention 2026

According to Reuters, the operation involved 150 military aircraft and thousands of troops, which Democratic lawmakers like Hakeem Jeffries have labeled an unauthorized "act of war." However, the administration maintains a different narrative. Secretary of State Marco Rubio defended the action as a "law enforcement operation" targeting a narco-terrorist regime rather than a sovereign nation. The FBI reportedly arrested Maduro on the ground, bypassing the need for a formal declaration of war from Congress.

Geopolitical Backlash and the Oil Factor

The intervention's ripples are being felt across the globe. Cuba announced national mourning after 32 combatants were killed during the US raid. Meanwhile, regional powers including Brazil and Mexico condemned the action as a dangerous violation of international law. Adding fuel to the fire, Trump also targeted Colombia, calling President Gustavo Petro a "sick man" and refusing to rule out military action against his neighbor.