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Maduro captured: US seizes Venezuelan president in overnight strike

President Trump announced US forces carried out a large scale strike on Venezuela that resulted in the capture and removal of President Nicolás Maduro and his wife; the operation has triggered global condemnation, legal debates and market jitters.

Number

40 — Confirmed dead in Crans‑Montana Swiss ski resort bar fire

Quote

"We are locked and loaded and ready to go" — President Donald Trump

SPX 6,858 ↑ 0.19% Dow 48,382 ↑ 0.66% Nasdaq 23,236 ↓ 0.03% Gold 4,330 ↓ 0.26% BTC 89,998 ↑ 0.06%

24 Hours

US captures Venezuelan president Nicolás Maduro - Trump announces

The United States carried out a large‑scale strike on Venezuela and announced the capture and removal of President Nicolás Maduro. These reports include official White House claims and immediate fallout as the operation unfolds.

DOJ indicts Nicolás Maduro on narco terror charges

The Justice Department moved rapidly after the capture, announcing indictments and criminal charges for Maduro and associates. Officials framed the legal case as narco‑terror and prepared for trial in US courts.

World leaders denounce US operation in Venezuela

Global leaders reacted within hours, with a mix of condemnation, support and calls for restraint. Diplomatic responses are shaping regional instability and will influence next steps for the US and allies.

Congressional Democrats lash out at Trump over Venezuela strikes

Lawmakers in Washington were quick to react, with Democrats condemning the unilateral military action and calling for accountability. Congressional divisions over authorizations and oversight exploded into immediate partisan conflict.

Delta Force raids Maduro compound in dead of night swoop

Details about the military operation emerged indicating special forces and air strikes played central roles. Reports point to a coordinated airborne assault and targeted hits on military sites in Caracas.

Colombia mobilises forces at border after Maduro removal

Neighboring governments reacted with alarm, mobilising forces or issuing condemnations. Regional capitals warned the US action risks destabilising security and refugee flows across borders.

Oil shock risk as Venezuela leader removed - analysts

Markets and energy experts scrambled to price the risk from strikes and the removal of Venezuela's leader. Analysts flagged potential disruptions to oil flows and near‑term volatility in gas prices and markets.

Russia condemns US attack on Venezuela and warns of fallout

Russia and Iran condemned the US operation while warning of consequences. Tehran and Moscow framed the action as a dangerous escalation with potential wider fallout for regional conflicts.

Venezuelan vice president demands proof of life for Maduro

Venezuelan officials demanded proof that Maduro is alive and pressed for information about his whereabouts. The vice president and ruling party offered conflicting accounts amid confusion.

Legal analysts say capture did not require congressional approval

Legal and constitutional experts debated whether the operation required prior congressional approval. Senators and legal commentators offered diverging views on presidential authority and war powers.

Coast Guard halts search after strikes on alleged drug boats

The US Coast Guard scaled back search operations after strikes on suspected drug vessels in the region. Officials said search efforts were paused amid operational and safety concerns.

Scholars say Maduro capture raises international law questions

Lawyers and commentators argued the capture raises thorny questions of international law and precedent. Critics said secret legal rationales and memos deepen concerns about executive overreach.

Deadly Swiss ski bar fire ravages Crans Montana

A deadly New Year blaze at a popular Swiss bar killed dozens and left many injured. Investigators pointed to sparklers and safety lapses as the fire's likely ignition source.

Police identify first four victims of Swiss fire

Authorities began identifying victims and releasing names as families awaited news. Officials said several injured remain unidentified while searches and notifications continue.

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Protests in Iran continued to grow despite crackdowns, with rising casualties and heavy rhetoric from the regime. The unrest raises broader geopolitical concerns as the US warns of intervention risks.

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Helicopter crash in Arizona canyon kills four family members

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Fed faces fresh challenges as 2026 begins

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POTUS LATEST

"The United States of America has successfully carried out a large scale strike against Venezuela and its leader, President Nicolas Maduro, who has been, along with his wife, captured and flown out of the Country. This operation was done in conjunction with U.S. Law Enforcement. Details to follow. There will be a News Conference today at…"