Trump Orders Military Operation in Venezuela: President Maduro Detained

The new year started with a bang, but not the celebratory kind. Donald Trump has just upended the geopolitical order in the Western Hemisphere. On January 4, 2026, the U.S. launched a massive military strike against Venezuela, leading to the detention of President Maduro.

The 2026 Trump Venezuela Military Operation

According to reports from NHK, the situation escalated rapidly in the early hours of Sunday. At 3:40 AM, President Trump authorized the operation. By 8:08 AM, a large-scale offensive was underway, and officials confirmed that Maduro had been taken into custody.

The U.S. government officially announced the detention at 8:57 AM. This lightning-fast strike targets key strategic assets within Venezuela. It's a move that's sent shockwaves through the international community, catching world leaders off guard.

Global Repercussions and Regional Stability

The detention of Maduro marks a pivotal turning point for South American politics. While some view this as the end of a long-standing dictatorship, others worry about the potential for prolonged regional instability and civil unrest. Experts suggest that Washington is prepared for a significant restructuring of the Venezuelan government.