Venezuelan government actions and unrest

Developing StoryLast updated JUN 11
SUMMARY

Venezuela deployed troops on June 10, 2026, to target illegal groups controlling gold deposits, resulting in explosions and gunfire, as part of an effort to attract foreign investment to the mining sector. As of June 10, 2026, the operation is ongoing, amidst continued protests by opposition groups and unions demanding free elections and salary increases. A civilian was shot by a police officer on June 1-2, 2026, in Caracas, prompting scrutiny of police training. Earlier, on May 23, 2026, the U.S. military conducted a rapid response exercise over Caracas, which sparked protests and followed the January 2026 capture of former President Nicolás Maduro.

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Timeline of developments

June 2026 5 developments

  1. Venezuela deployed troops on June 10, 2026, to target illegal groups controlling gold deposits, resulting in explosions and gunfire.

    Venezuela deployed troops on June 10, 2026, to target illegal groups controlling gold deposits, resulting in explosions and gunfire. This operation is part of an effort to attract foreign investment to the mining sector.

  2. A civilian was shot by a police officer handling her firearm at the Colinas de Bello Monte metro sta…

    A civilian was shot by a police officer handling her firearm at the Colinas de Bello Monte metro station in Caracas on June 1-2, 2026, prompting scrutiny of police training and firearm safety protocols. This incident occurred amidst ongoing protests by opposition groups and unions demanding free elections and salary increases.

  3. Venezuelan opposition groups and unions held nationwide protests on June 3, 2026, demanding free elections and salary increases.

    Venezuelan opposition groups and unions held nationwide protests on June 3, 2026, demanding free elections and salary increases. Concurrently, the National Assembly approved a reform to the electricity law in June 2026, aiming to attract private investment amidst a long-standing electricity crisis.

  4. Protests occurred in Caracas on May 25, 2026, where supporters of Nicolás Maduro burned portraits of U.

    Protests occurred in Caracas on May 25, 2026, where supporters of Nicolás Maduro burned portraits of U.S. President Donald Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Unrest was also reported at the Barinas Judicial Detention Center on May 25, 2026. Earlier, on January 5, 2026, shots were fired near the Miraflores presidential palace amidst reports of unidentified drones.

  5. Activists from the ALBA Movimientos coalition protested U.

    Activists from the ALBA Movimientos coalition protested U.S. military drills in Caracas on May 24, 2026, burning portraits of U.S. President Donald Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. This action followed U.S. military aircraft conducting a rapid response exercise at the U.S. Embassy on May 23, 2026, which Venezuelan groups condemned as a violation of sovereignty.

May 2026 8 developments

  1. The director of Injuba prison, Elvis Macuare Guerrero, has been dismissed following violent clashes and inmate protests over alleged mistreatment.

    The director of Injuba prison, Elvis Macuare Guerrero, has been dismissed following violent clashes and inmate protests over alleged mistreatment. The unrest involved prisoners setting mattresses on fire, leading to a heavy security response with reports of explosions and gunfire. The Venezuelan Prison Observatory is documenting the events and has reported the abuse allegations to human rights watchdogs.

  2. The U.S. military overflight drill in Venezuela was authorized by the regime on Sunday, May 24, 2026…

    The U.S. military overflight drill in Venezuela was authorized by the regime on Sunday, May 24, 2026. This event occurred amidst ongoing political discussions within Venezuela concerning presidential elections and the general state of human rights and quality of life.

  3. The U.S. military conducted a rapid response exercise over Caracas on May 23, 2026, involving Marine…

    The U.S. military conducted a rapid response exercise over Caracas on May 23, 2026, involving Marines and Osprey aircraft landing at the U.S. Embassy. The drill, intended to ensure readiness, sparked protests from residents and activists who viewed it as a provocative act following the January 2026 capture of former President Nicolás Maduro.

  4. A protest occurred in Caracas on May 21, 2026, demanding protection for prisoners.

    A protest occurred in Caracas on May 21, 2026, demanding protection for prisoners. Earlier, in January 2026, a US military operation resulted in the capture of President Nicolás Maduro and his wife.

  5. A U.S. military flyover drill is scheduled for May 23, 2026, in Caracas as part of an embassy evacua…

    A U.S. military flyover drill is scheduled for May 23, 2026, in Caracas as part of an embassy evacuation drill, indicating ongoing U.S. diplomatic and security engagement. This event follows the January 2026 capture of former President Nicolás Maduro, with Delcy Rodríguez serving as interim president.

  6. On May 20, 2026, a silent protest was held in Caracas demanding justice and the release of all polit…

    On May 20, 2026, a silent protest was held in Caracas demanding justice and the release of all political prisoners, with relatives and human rights defenders voicing concerns over the deaths of political prisoners in state custody. Protests have also surged due to constant power outages.

  7. In early May 2026, Venezuela experienced a nine-year high in electricity demand, resulting in widespread power outages across the country.

    In early May 2026, Venezuela experienced a nine-year high in electricity demand, resulting in widespread power outages across the country. The government cited high temperatures, increased economic activity, and lingering US sanctions as causes for the strain on the power grid. These outages have disrupted businesses and daily life, with factories facing voltage drops and extended power cuts.

  8. Thousands of Venezuelans marched in Caracas on May 1, 2026, demanding the lifting of international sanctions.

    Thousands of Venezuelans marched in Caracas on May 1, 2026, demanding the lifting of international sanctions. The country is also experiencing a severe electricity crisis with daily power outages lasting up to 10 hours, impacting essential services and industries. Experts estimate $15 billion is needed over three years to repair the grid.

April 2026 1 developments

  1. Clashes erupted in Caracas as state workers marched demanding overdue wage hikes, with riot police using pepper spray to disperse crowds.

    Clashes erupted in Caracas as state workers marched demanding overdue wage hikes, with riot police using pepper spray to disperse crowds. Vice President Delcy Rodríguez announced a pay rise effective May 1, but workers remain unconvinced due to a lack of details and wages frozen since 2022.

March 2026 3 developments

  1. The U.S. has reestablished diplomatic relations with Venezuela and eased economic sanctions followin…

    The U.S. has reestablished diplomatic relations with Venezuela and eased economic sanctions following the capture of former President Nicolás Maduro. Acting President Delcy Rodríguez has had some sanctions lifted, allowing for more work with U.S. companies and investors. Despite these developments, the U.S. Department of State advises reconsidering travel to Venezuela due to ongoing risks.

  2. The United States and Venezuela's interim authorities have agreed to re-establish diplomatic and consular relations, announced on March 5, 2026.

    The United States and Venezuela's interim authorities have agreed to re-establish diplomatic and consular relations, announced on March 5, 2026. This move follows several visits by Trump administration officials after the US military operation that deposed former President Nicolás Maduro in January. The agreement aims to promote stability, support economic recovery, and advance political reconciliation.

  3. On January 3, 2026, a US military operation in Caracas involved multiple explosions and power outage…

    On January 3, 2026, a US military operation in Caracas involved multiple explosions and power outages, leading to the detention of President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, who were transported to the US to face charges. Gunfire and suspected drone activity near the presidential palace were reported days later on January 6, indicating ongoing instability following the raid.

February 2026 1 developments

  1. Thousands of supporters of former Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro marched in Caracas demanding his release.

    Thousands of supporters of former Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro marched in Caracas demanding his release. This demonstration occurred a month after his capture and transfer to New York for drug charges. Interim president Delcy Rodriguez is currently navigating support from Washington and Maduro loyalists.

January 2026 82 developments

  1. Following the US military operation and the capture of President Nicolás Maduro, acting President De…

    Following the US military operation and the capture of President Nicolás Maduro, acting President Delcy Rodríguez has proposed legislation aimed at releasing hundreds of political prisoners. This action is seen as a concession amidst the ongoing political situation in Venezuela.

  2. Residents near Fuerte Tiuna military base described scenes of chaos, fear, and confusion during the …

    Residents near Fuerte Tiuna military base described scenes of chaos, fear, and confusion during the January 3rd nighttime raid, experiencing powerful blasts and being escorted by soldiers to safety. These accounts add a human perspective to the previously reported events.

  3. The Russian Ambassador to Venezuela, Serguéi Melik-Bagdasárov, stated that Caracas fired two Russian…

    The Russian Ambassador to Venezuela, Serguéi Melik-Bagdasárov, stated that Caracas fired two Russian anti-aircraft batteries at US troops during the operation to capture Nicolás Maduro, but they failed due to lack of training.

  4. Scattered demonstrations have occurred in Caracas and other Venezuelan cities, with protesters demanding the release of President Nicolás Maduro.

    Scattered demonstrations have occurred in Caracas and other Venezuelan cities, with protesters demanding the release of President Nicolás Maduro. Nicolás Maduro Jr. has accused the United States of orchestrating an armed plot to destabilize the country.

  5. The United States has appointed Laura Dogu as its new top envoy for Venezuela, serving as charge d'affaires to the Venezuela Affairs Unit based in Bogota.

    The United States has appointed Laura Dogu as its new top envoy for Venezuela, serving as charge d'affaires to the Venezuela Affairs Unit based in Bogota. This appointment follows the recent capture of President Nicolas Maduro.

  6. Caracas and 23 other Venezuelan states experienced new power cuts, occurring hours after a widespread blackout, highlighting an ongoing electricity crisis.

    Caracas and 23 other Venezuelan states experienced new power cuts, occurring hours after a widespread blackout, highlighting an ongoing electricity crisis. Separately, families of political prisoners have been protesting in Caracas for over twelve nights, demanding justice and the release of their loved ones.

  7. The New York Times reportedly revealed further details regarding the cyberattacks that caused power outages in Caracas during the January 3 US operation.

    The New York Times reportedly revealed further details regarding the cyberattacks that caused power outages in Caracas during the January 3 US operation.

  8. A Forbes report detailed that cyberattacks during the US operation in Caracas were precise, causing …

    A Forbes report detailed that cyberattacks during the US operation in Caracas were precise, causing power outages for most of the city for a few minutes and for over 24 hours around the military compound.

  9. New reports indicate that cyberattacks during the January 3 operation not only caused power outages in Caracas but also disrupted air defense radars.

    New reports indicate that cyberattacks during the January 3 operation not only caused power outages in Caracas but also disrupted air defense radars. Additionally, the Venezuelan government has authorized restrictions on fundamental rights and reported arrests in the aftermath of Maduro's capture.

  10. US officials confirmed that offensive cyber capabilities played a role in cutting power across Caracas on January 3 during the operation to abduct President Maduro.

    US officials confirmed that offensive cyber capabilities played a role in cutting power across Caracas on January 3 during the operation to abduct President Maduro. Additionally, thousands of transport drivers and riders participated in a motorcycle rally on January 14, demanding Maduro's freedom.

  11. Thousands of supporters of Venezuela's ruling party marched in Caracas on January 15, 2026, demanding the release of President Nicolás Maduro and First Lady Cilia Flores.

    Thousands of supporters of Venezuela's ruling party marched in Caracas on January 15, 2026, demanding the release of President Nicolás Maduro and First Lady Cilia Flores.

  12. Venezuela and the US are scheduled to hold talks on January 10, 2026, to restore diplomatic ties following Maduro's capture.

    Venezuela and the US are scheduled to hold talks on January 10, 2026, to restore diplomatic ties following Maduro's capture. Additionally, Maduro loyalists staged protests in Caracas on January 9 and 11, demanding his release.

  13. The U.S. Embassy in Bogota issued a new security alert on January 10, advising U.S. citizens not to …

    The U.S. Embassy in Bogota issued a new security alert on January 10, advising U.S. citizens not to travel to Venezuela and to depart immediately. Additionally, the Venezuelan government declared a 'state of external commotion,' granting broad powers to the presidency, and paramilitary groups are patrolling Caracas.

  14. Following the US raid in Caracas, 26 European Union member states called for respect for internation…

    Following the US raid in Caracas, 26 European Union member states called for respect for international law and Venezuela's democratic will, but did not explicitly condemn the US action.

  15. Recent U.S. strikes in Venezuela resulted in approximately 75 deaths, including 32 Cuban special for…

    Recent U.S. strikes in Venezuela resulted in approximately 75 deaths, including 32 Cuban special forces and two civilians, with residential buildings in Caracas sustaining damage. The U.S. Embassy in Bogota issued a security alert advising citizens to shelter in place due to reported explosions.

  16. The U.S. Embassy in Bogota issued a security alert on January 3, advising U.S. citizens in Caracas t…

    The U.S. Embassy in Bogota issued a security alert on January 3, advising U.S. citizens in Caracas to shelter in place and avoid travel. Additionally, the U.S. military strike on January 3, aimed at apprehending President Nicolás Maduro, has been identified as 'Operation Absolute Resolve,' following months of U.S. pressure and military targeting of alleged drug-smuggling.

  17. Following the capture of Nicolás Maduro, the new regime under Vice-President Delcy Rodríguez has imp…

    Following the capture of Nicolás Maduro, the new regime under Vice-President Delcy Rodríguez has imposed a more draconian atmosphere in Caracas, with paramilitary groups enforcing an informal curfew and security forces checking phones. Separately, officials suggested that the heavy gunfire near the presidential palace on January 6, which included anti-aircraft fire, was due to a miscommunication between security forces.

  18. Following the capture of President Nicolás Maduro, his wife Cilia Flores was also reported captured.

    Following the capture of President Nicolás Maduro, his wife Cilia Flores was also reported captured. On January 7, thousands of Venezuelan citizens protested in Caracas, demanding national sovereignty and the release of both President Maduro and his wife.

  19. US Special Operations forces conducted a sweep into Caracas on January 3rd, leading to the capture of Nicolás Maduro and his wife.

    US Special Operations forces conducted a sweep into Caracas on January 3rd, leading to the capture of Nicolás Maduro and his wife. Additionally, informal militias known as colectivos have been observed with larger weapons, establishing checkpoints across the city.

  20. United Nations experts have strongly condemned the large-scale US military action against Venezuela,…

    United Nations experts have strongly condemned the large-scale US military action against Venezuela, which included the bombardment of Caracas and other cities, and the forcible abduction of President Nicolás Maduro and his wife on January 7, 2026.

  21. A report from January 7, 2026, described Caracas experiencing empty shelves and the emergence of small protests that were quickly dispersed.

    A report from January 7, 2026, described Caracas experiencing empty shelves and the emergence of small protests that were quickly dispersed. These events marked a turning point for the city.

  22. Armed far-left militias, known as colectivos, reportedly took control of streets in Caracas on Janua…

    Armed far-left militias, known as colectivos, reportedly took control of streets in Caracas on January 7, with witnesses describing gunmen patrolling key areas and gunshots heard near the presidential palace.

  23. By January 7, Venezuela's government launched a crackdown in Caracas to suppress support for the cha…

    By January 7, Venezuela's government launched a crackdown in Caracas to suppress support for the change in leadership, involving the detention of journalists and civilians and the deployment of armed gangs.

  24. The power disruption in Caracas during the US operation to capture Maduro coincided with the arrival…

    The power disruption in Caracas during the US operation to capture Maduro coincided with the arrival of US special operations helicopters, suggesting sophisticated timing and coordination with cyber operators. President Trump hinted at the use of "a certain expertise" in this operation.

  25. Venezuela's Attorney General reported that 24 Venezuelan security officers and 32 Cuban military and police officers were killed in the US operation to capture Maduro.

    Venezuela's Attorney General reported that 24 Venezuelan security officers and 32 Cuban military and police officers were killed in the US operation to capture Maduro. Following these deaths, Cuba declared two days of mourning.

  26. The Cuban Ambassador to India condemned the US military operation in Venezuela, characterizing it as a criminal and terrorist act violating the UN Charter and international law.

    The Cuban Ambassador to India condemned the US military operation in Venezuela, characterizing it as a criminal and terrorist act violating the UN Charter and international law.

  27. Reports indicate dozens of fatalities resulted from the US attacks in Caracas on January 3.

    Reports indicate dozens of fatalities resulted from the US attacks in Caracas on January 3. Additionally, on January 6, drones triggered air defenses and heavy gunfire near the presidential palace, prompting the evacuation of main ministries.

  28. Following the US abduction of Maduro, a state of emergency was declared in Venezuela to search for loyalists.

    Following the US abduction of Maduro, a state of emergency was declared in Venezuela to search for loyalists. Residents of Caracas are experiencing price hikes and store closures, leading them to stock up on basic supplies amidst ongoing tension.

  29. Following the reported seizure of Nicolás Maduro, a new wave of repression has been unleashed across…

    Following the reported seizure of Nicolás Maduro, a new wave of repression has been unleashed across Caracas, with pro-government paramilitary groups setting up checkpoints and searching residents' phones. Additionally, over a dozen media workers were detained while covering the political unrest, though they were later released.

  30. A family in east Caracas survived when a projectile landed less than 20 meters from their home during the January 3rd bombings, severely damaging their house.

    A family in east Caracas survived when a projectile landed less than 20 meters from their home during the January 3rd bombings, severely damaging their house. This incident highlights the direct impact of the strikes on civilian residences.

  31. Unidentified drones were observed hovering over Venezuela's Miraflores Palace on January 6, leading security forces to open fire.

    Unidentified drones were observed hovering over Venezuela's Miraflores Palace on January 6, leading security forces to open fire. Additionally, vehicle convoys were seen moving through Caracas amidst ongoing unrest.

  32. State media reported that power outages in Caracas on January 3 were caused by a failure in the El J…

    State media reported that power outages in Caracas on January 3 were caused by a failure in the El Junquito substation due to heavy rains and strong winds, offering an alternative explanation to the US military operation. Additionally, residents are experiencing panic and uncertainty, leading to widespread stocking up on basic supplies, long queues at supermarkets, and reported price hikes for essential goods.

  33. President Trump confirmed US military action in Venezuela via a Truth Social post, claiming a successful large-scale strike.

    President Trump confirmed US military action in Venezuela via a Truth Social post, claiming a successful large-scale strike. Following the US actions and reported abduction of President Maduro, Caracas residents experienced price hikes, queues for necessities, and store closures.

  34. Venezuela's rulers deployed armed militias, known as colectivos, to patrol the streets of Caracas, establishing checkpoints and searching vehicles.

    Venezuela's rulers deployed armed militias, known as colectivos, to patrol the streets of Caracas, establishing checkpoints and searching vehicles. Journalists were also detained and their equipment confiscated amidst heightened security measures.

  35. Venezuela declared a national emergency on January 6 amid reported US attacks.

    Venezuela declared a national emergency on January 6 amid reported US attacks. The US military action, which included strikes on sites inside Venezuela ordered by President Trump, has drawn widespread international condemnation.

  36. The United States officially denied its involvement in the reported gunshots and drone activity near the Venezuelan presidential palace on January 5th.

    The United States officially denied its involvement in the reported gunshots and drone activity near the Venezuelan presidential palace on January 5th. This denial comes after the Venezuelan government had accused the US of launching attacks.

  37. Reports of heavy gunfire and drone activity near Venezuela's presidential palace on January 6 were c…

    Reports of heavy gunfire and drone activity near Venezuela's presidential palace on January 6 were clarified as friendly fire, stemming from an anti-drone drill conducted by the Presidential Guard. This incident led to panic and the mobilization of armored vehicles.

  38. On January 5, Caracas experienced new gunfire, explosions, and drone activity near the presidential palace, leading to lockdowns and security forces firing at drones.

    On January 5, Caracas experienced new gunfire, explosions, and drone activity near the presidential palace, leading to lockdowns and security forces firing at drones. Following Maduro's capture, Vice President Delcy Rodríguez was sworn in as interim president.

  39. On January 4, Caracas residents faced a total blackout, struggling to access essential services like food, electricity, and the internet.

    On January 4, Caracas residents faced a total blackout, struggling to access essential services like food, electricity, and the internet. The following day, government supporters protested in Caracas, demanding Maduro's release and condemning foreign intervention.

  40. Thousands of Nicolás Maduro's supporters held massive rallies in Caracas on January 4-5, protesting his capture by the US and demanding his release.

    Thousands of Nicolás Maduro's supporters held massive rallies in Caracas on January 4-5, protesting his capture by the US and demanding his release. The country's legislature also convened in response to the events.

  41. A cyberattack is believed to have caused the power outages in Caracas during the U.

    A cyberattack is believed to have caused the power outages in Caracas during the U.S. strikes, with President Trump indicating that U.S. Cyber Command was instrumental in the disruption. Internet connectivity was also lost in parts of the city.

  42. Widespread power outages have been reported across Venezuela, including Caracas, with the energy min…

    Widespread power outages have been reported across Venezuela, including Caracas, with the energy minister confirming significant damage to transmission infrastructure near the capital. Residents are also facing marked-up prices and long queues for basic supplies amidst the ongoing unrest.

  43. Heavy gunfire erupted outside the Miraflores presidential palace in Caracas on January 5, amid reports of a coup attempt.

    Heavy gunfire erupted outside the Miraflores presidential palace in Caracas on January 5, amid reports of a coup attempt. Videos on social media showed armed soldiers and armored vehicles near government buildings.

  44. Supporters of Nicolás Maduro protested in Caracas on January 4, demanding his and Cilia Flores' release, with the Venezuelan government having called for these demonstrations.

    Supporters of Nicolás Maduro protested in Caracas on January 4, demanding his and Cilia Flores' release, with the Venezuelan government having called for these demonstrations.

  45. Following the US military operation and the capture of Nicolás Maduro, some areas of Caracas experie…

    Following the US military operation and the capture of Nicolás Maduro, some areas of Caracas experienced intermittent water and power outages, leading to long queues at supermarkets. Chinese residents in Venezuela reported that the city remained relatively calm despite these disruptions.

  46. A mass democracy protest, joined by armed pro-government groups, took place in Caracas on January 4 following the reported US actions and capture of President Maduro.

    A mass democracy protest, joined by armed pro-government groups, took place in Caracas on January 4 following the reported US actions and capture of President Maduro. Large crowds marched through the city carrying images of Maduro.

  47. Former Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife were flown to New York to face criminal charges, and the US operation was named "Operation Absolute Resolve".

    Former Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife were flown to New York to face criminal charges, and the US operation was named "Operation Absolute Resolve". The Venezuelan government declared a state of external emergency, and its Foreign Minister requested an international session.

  48. The United States officially confirmed conducting strikes in Venezuela, and President Trump announce…

    The United States officially confirmed conducting strikes in Venezuela, and President Trump announced the capture of Nicolas Maduro and his wife, stating the US would temporarily run Venezuela and exploit its oil reserves. Venezuela's Vice President Delcy Rodriguez is expected to temporarily assume the presidency.

  49. Explosions and power outages struck Caracas on January 3, 2026, during what Venezuela's government called "extremely serious military aggression" by the United States.

    Explosions and power outages struck Caracas on January 3, 2026, during what Venezuela's government called "extremely serious military aggression" by the United States. US media reported military strikes, and President Donald Trump later claimed credit for the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro.

  50. A US military operation on January 3, 2026, involved multiple explosions and gunfire in Caracas, Ven…

    A US military operation on January 3, 2026, involved multiple explosions and gunfire in Caracas, Venezuela, causing power outages and leading to the deposition of former President Nicolás Maduro. The operation included low-flying aircraft and was met with armed response near military bases. This event precedes the recent agreement to re-establish diplomatic relations between the US and Venezuela's interim authorities.

  51. Explosions, gunfire, and suspected drone activity were reported in Caracas on January 3rd and 6th, 2026, amid escalating US-Venezuela tensions.

    Explosions, gunfire, and suspected drone activity were reported in Caracas on January 3rd and 6th, 2026, amid escalating US-Venezuela tensions. A significant power outage on January 3rd, initially framed as a cyberattack, also involved physical damage to substations. The White House stated the US was not involved in the January 6th unrest.

  52. Explosions and low-flying aircraft were heard in Caracas on January 3, 2026, with at least seven explosions reported near a military base that lost power.

    Explosions and low-flying aircraft were heard in Caracas on January 3, 2026, with at least seven explosions reported near a military base that lost power. On January 5, 2026, shots were fired near the presidential palace as unidentified drones flew overhead, and heavy gunfire was reported near the Miraflores palace. President Trump hinted that US forces used technical expertise to disable power in Caracas ahead of the operation to capture Maduro.

  53. Explosions rocked Caracas on January 3, 2026, following US military action threats, with Venezuela accusing the US of aggression and Colombia calling for a UN meeting.

    Explosions rocked Caracas on January 3, 2026, following US military action threats, with Venezuela accusing the US of aggression and Colombia calling for a UN meeting. Gunfire was also reported near the presidential palace on January 6, 2026, after unidentified drones flew overhead.

  54. On January 3, 2026, the United States launched 'Operation Absolute Resolve,' a military strike in Ve…

    On January 3, 2026, the United States launched 'Operation Absolute Resolve,' a military strike in Venezuela that resulted in the capture of President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores. The operation involved explosions and bombing of infrastructure across northern Venezuela, and US forces used cyber warfare to disable power in Caracas.

  55. On January 3, 2026, Caracas experienced a blackout following at least seven explosions near military installations, causing panic and power outages.

    On January 3, 2026, Caracas experienced a blackout following at least seven explosions near military installations, causing panic and power outages. Drones were spotted over the capital, prompting Venezuelan air defenses to fire shots. Independent monitors confirmed disruptions to power and internet connectivity coinciding with a U.S. operation, during which President Nicolás Maduro and his wife were captured.

  56. Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, were reportedly captured during an attack on January 3rd.

    Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, were reportedly captured during an attack on January 3rd. This news coincided with detonations and aircraft overflights in Caracas, leading to the government declaring a state of 'Conmoción Exterior'.

  57. President Trump announced on January 3 that Cilia Flores de Maduro, the wife of Nicolas Maduro, was …

    President Trump announced on January 3 that Cilia Flores de Maduro, the wife of Nicolas Maduro, was also captured during the US military operation, and both are expected to face criminal charges. Following this, Venezuelan government supporters protested in Caracas on January 4 and 5, while Canada issued a travel advisory due to heightened security.

Show earlier developments (23 more)

Reports indicate the U.

Reports indicate the U.S. military operation to capture Nicolas Maduro and his wife, which involved low-flying aircraft and explosions starting around 2 AM local time, extracted them from a military base. Following Maduro's capture, his supporters took to the streets in Caracas, and the Canadian government issued a travel warning for Venezuela.

US President Donald Trump announced on Truth Social that Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife were captured and flown out of Venezuela.

US President Donald Trump announced on Truth Social that Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife were captured and flown out of Venezuela. The United States also officially confirmed it conducted strikes inside Venezuela.

Eyewitnesses reported seeing smoke from two key military installations and an airport in Caracas following the explosions.

Eyewitnesses reported seeing smoke from two key military installations and an airport in Caracas following the explosions. A southern area of the city, near a major military base, was also reported to be without electricity.

US officials acknowledged reports of explosions and aircraft but stated there was no immediate response from the White House or Pentagon.

US officials acknowledged reports of explosions and aircraft but stated there was no immediate response from the White House or Pentagon. Residents also reported hearing gunshots in several areas within Caracas, and President Maduro called on social and political forces to activate 'mobilisation plans'.

Reports suggest US President Donald Trump ordered the strikes on military facilities and other sites within Venezuela.

Reports suggest US President Donald Trump ordered the strikes on military facilities and other sites within Venezuela. The national emergency declaration grants broader authority over security and communications, with officials arguing that recent US military actions in the Caribbean and Pacific have increasingly crossed into Venezuelan territory.

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro further elaborated on his accusation, stating the 'imperialist aggression' aimed to seize the country's oil and minerals.

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro further elaborated on his accusation, stating the 'imperialist aggression' aimed to seize the country's oil and minerals. Residents reported at least seven explosions around 1:50-2:00 a.m. local time, with gunshots also heard in specific locations like Higuerote and La Guaira.

Residents in Caracas reported widespread power outages across multiple areas of the city following the explosions and aircraft sightings.

Residents in Caracas reported widespread power outages across multiple areas of the city following the explosions and aircraft sightings. Colombian President Gustavo Petro also called for immediate meetings of the Organization of American States (OAS) and the United Nations (UN) in response to the incidents.

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro declared a national emergency following the blasts and accused the United States of launching a military attack.

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro declared a national emergency following the blasts and accused the United States of launching a military attack. The government stated that civilian and military installations in Caracas and other states were targeted.

Multiple loud explosions and low-flying aircraft were reported across Caracas on January 2nd and 3rd, with at least seven explosions shaking the city.

Multiple loud explosions and low-flying aircraft were reported across Caracas on January 2nd and 3rd, with at least seven explosions shaking the city. Widespread power outages also occurred in the capital on January 2nd and 3rd, including near a major military base.

Throughout September and early October, the US conducted at least three more strikes on suspected drug vessels in the Caribbean, killing additional alleged 'naroterrorists.

Throughout September and early October, the US conducted at least three more strikes on suspected drug vessels in the Caribbean, killing additional alleged 'naroterrorists.'

Workers and pensioners clashed with police in Caracas on April 10, 2026, while protesting stagnant wages and demanding better pay.

Workers and pensioners clashed with police in Caracas on April 10, 2026, while protesting stagnant wages and demanding better pay. The demonstrators attempted to approach the presidential palace, highlighting ongoing public discontent with economic conditions. Authorities have not yet released details on arrests or injuries.