A US Army soldier on Wednesday (Apr 21) was indicted on federal charges after allegedly using classified information about a secret military operation to capture Venezuelan president Nicolas Maduro. The soldier, identified as Gannon Ken Van Dyke by the Justice Department, is accused of taking advantage of his position "to profit off of a righteous military operation." He reportedly walked off with more than $400,000 in winnings based on the top-secret intel. FBI Director Kash Patel called the case a betrayal of fellow service members. "Any clearance holders thinking of cashing in their access and knowledge for personal gain will be held accountable," he said. On X, he confirmed the case and said, "This involved a U.S. soldier who allegedly took advantage of his position to profit off of a righteous military operation. Here's all we know.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/-profiting-off-righteous-operation-how-an-army-soldier-used-secret-war-plans-about-maduro-s-capture-to-make-400-000-on-polymarket-1776993168140">'Righteous operation?': How a US soldier turned secret war plans into a $400,000 payday</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">This involved a U.S. soldier who allegedly took advantage of his position to profit off of a righteous military operation. Thank you to our agents, Intel teams, and great partners <a href="https://twitter.com/TheJusticeDept?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TheJusticeDept</a> who protected our war fighters. Investigation ongoing. <a href="https://t.co/Adn4K19r3J">https://t.co/Adn4K19r3J</a>&mdash; FBI Director Kash Patel (@FBIDirectorKash) <a href="https://twitter.com/FBIDirectorKash/status/2047441497616691666?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 23, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Turning top secret info into a payday</h2>38-year-old Gannon Ken Van Dyke, as per the DoJ, was posted at Fort Bragg and actively participated in the planning and execution of Operation Absolute Resolve. This classified mission resulted in the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro in the predawn hours of January 3.He allegedly used the classified information to bet big on Polymarket, a prediction market where people can bet on real-time events. In total, he placed 13 bets totalling approximately $33,000. When US President Donald Trump announced the success of the mission, the US soldier walked off with approximately $409,881 in profits.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/fact-check-will-petrol-diesel-get-25-28-more-expensive-govt-breaks-silence-on-fuel-price-hike-reports-1776927218947">FACT CHECK: Will petrol, diesel get ₹25-28 more expensive? GOI breaks silence on fuel price hike reports</a><h2>Polymarket in murky waters</h2>Polymarket, operated by Blockratize Inc., had been offering binary event contracts on Venezuela and Maduro since 2025. Earlier this year, the platform made the headlines after reports emerged of unusual trading around the Iran strikes, with suspected insiders making millions on contracts tied to the death of Supreme Leader Khamenei.However, Van Dyke's case is the first criminal indictment arising from alleged insider trading on a prediction market.A failed coverupAs Polymarket became a flashpoint, the soldier tried to cover his tracks, but failed. According to the DoJ, he withdrew the bulk of his winnings and transferred most of them to a foreign cryptocurrency vault before depositing them into a newly created online brokerage account. He also attempted to close his Polymarket account. Van Dyke now faces up to 40 years in prison for his various crimes.&nbsp;

A US soldier allegedly turned a top-secret mission into a $400,000 payday. A federal indictment claims classified intel on Nicolás Maduro’s capture was used to bet big on Polymarket before the news broke.

What did he know, and how did he try to cover it up? Scroll down to find out.

A US Army soldier on Wednesday (Apr 21) was indicted on federal charges after allegedly using classified information about a secret military operation to capture Venezuelan president Nicolas Maduro. The soldier, identified as Gannon Ken Van Dyke by the Justice Department, is accused of taking advantage of his position "to profit off of a righteous military operation." He reportedly walked off with more than $400,000 in winnings based on the top-secret intel. FBI Director Kash Patel called the case a betrayal of fellow service members. "Any clearance holders thinking of cashing in their access and knowledge for personal gain will be held accountable," he said. On X, he confirmed the case and said, "This involved a U.S. soldier who allegedly took advantage of his position to profit off of a righteous military operation. Here's all we know. Also read | 'Righteous operation?': How a US soldier turned secret war plans into a $400,000 payday

A US soldier allegedly turned a top-secret mission into a $400,000 payday. A federal indictment claims classified intel on Nicolás Maduro’s capture was used to bet big on Polymarket before the news broke.What did he know, and how did he try to cover it up? Scroll down to find out.

US soldier faces 40 years in prison for making $400k on Polymarket using classified intel about Maduro capture

Nicolás Maduro’s son has expressed confidence in the American judicial system even as he criticised the ongoing case against his father as fundamentally flawed. Speaking to AFP in Caracas, Nicolás Maduro Guerra, popularly known as “Nicolasito”, said, “We trust in the legal system of the United States,” but argued the trial was tainted from the outset.&nbsp;He claimed the case carried “vestiges of illegitimacy” due to what he described as the “kidnapping” of an elected president during a US military operation, echoing arguments long made by Maduro and his legal team. His remarks came as Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, appeared in a New York federal court on Thursday (March 26) for a key hearing linked to drug trafficking and narco-terrorism charges, which both have denied.&nbsp;The hearing, which concluded without a trial date, largely focused on a contentious issue: whether US sanctions are preventing the couple from accessing adequate legal representation. Defence lawyers argued that restrictions on Venezuelan state funds violate their right to counsel, while prosecutors rejected the claim.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-toys-compared-to-ours-trump-mocks-uk-aircraft-carrier-questions-britain-s-commitment-in-iran-conflict-i-said-don-t-bother-1774539771473">‘Toys compared to ours’: Trump mocks UK carrier in latest swipe at Keir Starmer</a>&nbsp;Presiding judge Alvin Hellerstein indicated that the defendants’ right to choose their lawyers is paramount and suggested they should be allowed access to Venezuelan government funds. He also noted that national security concerns may no longer apply since the couple is already in US custody.&nbsp;However, prosecutors maintained that the court cannot compel the US Treasury to grant special licences to bypass sanctions. They also accused Maduro and Flores of having “plundered” Venezuela’s wealth. The judge repeatedly questioned both sides on how to resolve the issue, highlighting the unusual and complex nature of the case. No immediate resolution was reached, and a follow-up date is yet to be scheduled.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-iran-is-begging-to-make-a-deal-not-sure-we-are-willing-claims-trump-1774536168663">'Iran is begging to make a deal, not sure we are willing', claims Trump</a>&nbsp;Despite the legal uncertainty, Maduro appeared composed after the hearing, smiling and greeting his lawyers before being escorted out of court with his wife. The high-profile case stems from Maduro’s dramatic capture by US forces earlier this year and has drawn global attention, raising questions about international law, sanctions, and the limits of US jurisdiction.

Maduro’s son backs US courts but calls trial illegitimate, citing “kidnapping”. New York hearing debates legal funding amid sanctions. Judge signals support for defence rights; no trial date set.

Nicolás Maduro’s son has expressed confidence in the American judicial system even as he criticised the ongoing case against his father as fundamentally flawed. Speaking to AFP in Caracas, Nicolás Maduro Guerra, popularly known as “Nicolasito”, said, “We trust in the legal system of the United States,” but argued the trial was tainted from the outset. He claimed the case carried “vestiges of illegitimacy” due to what he described as the “kidnapping” of an elected president during a US military operation, echoing arguments long made by Maduro and his legal team. His remarks came as Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, appeared in a New York federal court on Thursday (March 26) for a key hearing linked to drug trafficking and narco-terrorism charges, which both have denied. The hearing, which concluded without a trial date, largely focused on a contentious issue: whether US sanctions are preventing the couple from accessing adequate legal representation. Defence lawyers argued that restrictions on Venezuelan state funds violate their right to counsel, while prosecutors rejected the claim. Also read: ‘Toys compared to ours’: Trump mocks UK carrier in latest swipe at Keir Starmer Presiding judge Alvin Hellerstein indicated that the defendants’ right to choose their lawyers is paramount and suggested they should be allowed access to Venezuelan government funds. He also noted that national security concerns may no longer apply since the couple is already in US custody. However, prosecutors maintained that the court cannot compel the US Treasury to grant special licences to bypass sanctions. They also accused Maduro and Flores of having “plundered” Venezuela’s wealth. The judge repeatedly questioned both sides on how to resolve the issue, highlighting the unusual and complex nature of the case. No immediate resolution was reached, and a follow-up date is yet to be scheduled. Also read: 'Iran is begging to make a deal, not sure we are willing', claims Trump Despite the legal uncertainty, Maduro appeared composed after the hearing, smiling and greeting his lawyers before being escorted out of court with his wife. The high-profile case stems from Maduro’s dramatic capture by US forces earlier this year and has drawn global attention, raising questions about international law, sanctions, and the limits of US jurisdiction.

Maduro’s son backs US courts but calls the trial illegitimate, citing “kidnapping”. New York hearing debates legal funding amid sanctions. Judge signals support for defence rights; no trial date set.

Maduro’s son hails US ‘legal system’, calls trial ‘illegitimate’ after ‘kidnapping’ claim

Over a month before the US launched an operation capturing Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife, it had designated this cartel as a foreign terrorist organisation (FTO).

Over a month before the US launched an operation capturing Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife, it had designated this cartel as a foreign terrorist organisation (FTO).

What is Venezuela’s ‘Cartel de los Soles’, the US-designated terrorist organisation led by Nicolás Maduro?

Narco-terrorism is the use of drug money to fund political violence. Trump says Nicolás Maduro for leading a narco-terrorism conspiracy, alleging he runs the 'Cartel of the Suns'. Donald Trump accused Maduro of using cocaine as a weapon to attack the US. 

Narco-terrorism is the use of drug money to fund political violence. Trump says Nicolás Maduro for leading a narco-terrorism conspiracy, alleging he runs the 'Cartel of the Suns.' Donald Trump accused Maduro of using cocaine as a weapon to attack the US.&nbsp;

What is narco-terrorism, and why did Trump say Nicolás Maduro is leading it?

North Korea has strongly condemned the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro by the United States, calling it a “serious encroachment of sovereignty”.

North Korea has strongly condemned the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro by the United States, calling it a “serious encroachment of sovereignty”.

‘Confirms rogue and brutal nature of US’: North Korea condemns US strikes on Venezuela and capture of Maduro

He and his wife, Cilia Flores, were flown by helicopter to the federal facility and are due to appear in Manhattan federal court as soon as Monday, according to a Justice Department official.

He and his wife, Cilia Flores, were flown by helicopter to the federal facility and are due to appear in Manhattan federal court as soon as Monday, according to a Justice Department official.

‘Nicolás Maduro jailed’: Why is the Brooklyn federal jail holding toppled Venezuelan leader considered a ‘hell hole’?

Venezuela’s acting president, Delcy Rodríguez, on Sunday blamed Israel for helping the US operation that led to the arrest of Nicolás Maduro, and described the development as a “Zionist attack” against the country. While addressing alongside senior figures from the ruling establishment, Rodríguez claimed that Israel was accountable for what she categorised as foreign aggression against Venezuela.&nbsp;However, she provided no evidence to back the claim and restated the government’s long-held stance that Maduro is the nation’s sole legitimate president. “The attack on Venezuela is Zionist,” Rodríguez said, i24News reported.&nbsp;She also echoed language often used by the Chavista leadership during the political crisis. Her comments came a day after U.S. forces detained President Maduro in Caracas and flew him to New York, where he was taken into federal custody.<h3>Rodríguez says the arrest of Maduro does not nullify his presidency</h3>Meanwhile, Rodríguez maintained that the arrest of Maduro does not nullify his presidency. In his absence, Venezuela’s constitutional court appointed her as interim president, a decision that has added to uncertainty over who wields real power in the country.&nbsp;Rodríguez also appeared alongside her senior officials, including National Assembly President Jorge Rodríguez, Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello, and Defence Minister Vladimir Padrino López, projecting unity within the ruling elite amid growing instability.&nbsp;President Donald Trump welcomed the operation, describing it as decisive and saying it brought an end to Maduro’s rule. Israeli authorities did not immediately comment on Rodríguez’s accusations.&nbsp;During past confrontations with foreign powers, the government of Venezuela has continuously invoked Israel and “Zionism” intending to deflect internal blame and consolidate domestic support during moments of political crisis within the country.&nbsp;Currently, President Nicolás Maduro is in custody at a New York detention centre after he was captured following the US strikes on Venezuela on Saturday. During the attack at least 40 people reportedly lost their lives including soldiers and civilians.

Delcy Rodríguez also echoed language often used by the Chavista leadership during the political crisis. Her comments came a day after U.S. forces detained President Maduro in Caracas and flew him to New York, where he was taken into federal custody.

Venezuela’s acting president, Delcy Rodríguez, on Sunday blamed Israel for helping the US operation that led to the arrest of Nicolás Maduro, and described the development as a “Zionist attack” against the country. While addressing alongside senior figures from the ruling establishment, Rodríguez claimed that Israel was accountable for what she categorised as foreign aggression against Venezuela. However, she provided no evidence to back the claim and restated the government’s long-held stance that Maduro is the nation’s sole legitimate president. “The attack on Venezuela is Zionist,” Rodríguez said, i24News reported. She also echoed language often used by the Chavista leadership during the political crisis. Her comments came a day after U.S. forces detained President Maduro in Caracas and flew him to New York, where he was taken into federal custody. Rodríguez says the arrest of Maduro does not nullify his presidency Meanwhile, Rodríguez maintained that the arrest of Maduro does not nullify his presidency. In his absence, Venezuela’s constitutional court appointed her as interim president, a decision that has added to uncertainty over who wields real power in the country. Rodríguez also appeared alongside her senior officials, including National Assembly President Jorge Rodríguez, Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello, and Defence Minister Vladimir Padrino López, projecting unity within the ruling elite amid growing instability. President Donald Trump welcomed the operation, describing it as decisive and saying it brought an end to Maduro’s rule. Israeli authorities did not immediately comment on Rodríguez’s accusations. During past confrontations with foreign powers, the government of Venezuela has continuously invoked Israel and “Zionism” intending to deflect internal blame and consolidate domestic support during moments of political crisis within the country. Currently, President Nicolás Maduro is in custody at a New York detention centre after he was captured following the US strikes on Venezuela on Saturday. During the attack at least 40 people reportedly lost their lives including soldiers and civilians.

Delcy Rodríguez also echoed language often used by the Chavista leadership during the political crisis. Her comments came a day after U.S. forces detained President Maduro in Caracas and flew him to New York, where he was taken into federal custody.

Was Israel aiding US operation to capture Maduro? Venezuela’s acting president claims ‘Zionist attack’

President Donald Trump on Saturday (Jan 03) hailed the US army for successfully conducting military strikes inside Venezuela and the mission to capture President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, describing it as a spectacular display of American military, one that people haven't seen before. He termed the operation as one of the best displays of US power in American history and added that no country in the world could achieve what the American armed forces achieved yesterday.&nbsp;Speaking from his Mar-a-Lago resort in Palm Beach, Florida, standing alongside Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Defence Secretary Pete Hogsett, Trump said, “At my direction, the United States Armed Forces conducted an extraordinary military operation in the capital of Venezuela.”&nbsp;Trump Further said not a single American service member was killed, and no equipment was lost, adding that the United States is prepared for a second wave of attack if required "We were prepared for a second wave, but probably it won't be required."<h2>Months of planning&nbsp;</h2>Giving details on the operation, Dan Caine, the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, said that the US military operation to extract Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro in a nighttime raid in Caracas took “months of planning and rehearsal”, and more than 150 US aircraft were used.&nbsp;&nbsp;"The word integration does not explain the sheer complexity of such a mission, an extraction so precise -- it involved more than 150 aircraft launching across the Western Hemisphere," Caine told a joint press conference with President Donald Trump.&nbsp;He disclosed that one of the aircraft got hit during the operation, but was in flying condition to let it return safely, adding that all the forces were over the water by 3.29 AM to return to the United States.&nbsp;&nbsp;Caine said the mission drew on decades of experience gained from fighting terrorists in the Middle East, Southwest Asia and Africa. He added that the troops involved combined youthful energy with deep experience, with the youngest service member aged 20 and the oldest 49. The operation involved military strikes followed by an “extraction force” to secure Maduro.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-releases-first-image-of-venezuela-s-nicol-s-maduro-aboard-uss-iwo-jima-1767458670020">Trump releases first image of captured Venezuela's Nicolás Maduro aboard USS Iwo Jima</a>&nbsp;General Dan Caine claimed that Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores “gave up” in front of US armed forces without much struggle.&nbsp;&nbsp;"Maduro and his wife, both indicted, gave up and were taken into custody by the Department of Justice, assisted by our incredible US military with professionalism and precision, with no loss of US life," Dan Caine said.&nbsp;&nbsp;On the subject of the US role in Venezuela after Maduro, Trump said that America will run the country until judicious transition "We're going to run the country until we can do a safe, proper and judicious transition," he added.

A top US general said the US military operation to extract Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro in a nighttime raid in Caracas took “months of planning and rehearsal” and involved the use of more than 150 US aircraft.

President Donald Trump on Saturday (Jan 03) hailed the US army for successfully conducting military strikes inside Venezuela and the mission to capture President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, describing it as a spectacular display of American military, one that people haven't seen before. He termed the operation as one of the best displays of US power in American history and added that no country in the world could achieve what the American armed forces achieved yesterday. Speaking from his Mar-a-Lago resort in Palm Beach, Florida, standing alongside Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Defence Secretary Pete Hogsett, Trump said, “At my direction, the United States Armed Forces conducted an extraordinary military operation in the capital of Venezuela.” Trump Further said not a single American service member was killed, and no equipment was lost, adding that the United States is prepared for a second wave of attack if required "We were prepared for a second wave, but probably it won't be required." Months of planning Giving details on the operation, Dan Caine, the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, said that the US military operation to extract Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro in a nighttime raid in Caracas took “months of planning and rehearsal”, and more than 150 US aircraft were used. "The word integration does not explain the sheer complexity of such a mission, an extraction so precise -- it involved more than 150 aircraft launching across the Western Hemisphere," Caine told a joint press conference with President Donald Trump. He disclosed that one of the aircraft got hit during the operation, but was in flying condition to let it return safely, adding that all the forces were over the water by 3.29 AM to return to the United States. Caine said the mission drew on decades of experience gained from fighting terrorists in the Middle East, Southwest Asia and Africa. He added that the troops involved combined youthful energy with deep experience, with the youngest service member aged 20 and the oldest 49. The operation involved military strikes followed by an “extraction force” to secure Maduro. Also Read: Trump releases first image of captured Venezuela's Nicolás Maduro aboard USS Iwo Jima General Dan Caine claimed that Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores “gave up” in front of US armed forces without much struggle. "Maduro and his wife, both indicted, gave up and were taken into custody by the Department of Justice, assisted by our incredible US military with professionalism and precision, with no loss of US life," Dan Caine said. On the subject of the US role in Venezuela after Maduro, Trump said that America will run the country until judicious transition "We're going to run the country until we can do a safe, proper and judicious transition," he added.

A top US general said the US military operation to extract Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro in a nighttime raid in Caracas took “months of planning and rehearsal” and involved the use of more than 150 US aircraft.

‘One of the best displays of US power,’ says Trump; took months of planning and rehearsal, adds Caine

US forces captured President Nicolas Maduro in Caracas. Here is how the crisis in the oil-rich nation impacts India's crude imports, refinery costs, and petrol prices.

US forces captured President Nicolas Maduro in Caracas. Here is how the crisis in the oil-rich nation impacts India's crude imports, refinery costs, and petrol prices.

Venezuela President captured: What it means for India’s crude oil imports and oil prices

Venezuela President Nicolás Maduro on Friday (Oct 31) once again accused the United States and its President Donald Trump of trying to impose a "narrative" to justify American attacks against Caracas and to trigger regime change. Addressing a meeting of Caribbean parliamentarians for peace in Caracas, Maduro alleged that the Americans "always want to impose a story, a narrative on us," calling the narrative "slanderous" and "extravagant". This comes as Trump, while talking to reporters aboard Air Force One, contradicted his earlier comments and denied that he was considering strikes inside Venezuela.<h2>Maduro slams Trump</h2>Speaking at a gathering of Caribbean parliamentarians, he said Washington was trying to portray Venezuela as a hub of international drug trafficking to build a case for military action. Accusing the US of wanting to seize the nation's vast oil wealth, Maduro alleged that the "narrative that American power has chosen against dignified, peaceful and Bolivarian Venezuela is an extravagant, lying and also slanderous narrative".Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-provoking-a-war-in-caribbean-venezuela-slams-us-exercises-in-trinidad-claims-arrest-of-cia-backed-mercenaries-1761545584808">Trump 'provoking a war in Caribbean'? Venezuela slams US exercises in Trinidad, claims arrest of CIA-backed mercenaries</a>Maduro accused Washington of trying to justify a war to seize Venezuela’s vast oil and gas reserves. "The truth is that Venezuela is innocent and everything that is being done against Venezuela is to justify a war, a regime change and steal our immense oil wealth, which is the main oil reserve and the fourth gas reserve in the world," he said, urging Venezuelans to remain calm and united.His comments came as tensions between Caracas and Washington continued to rise, with US President Donald Trump denying that he was considering strikes inside Venezuela — a statement that appeared to contradict his earlier remarks.<h2>What did Trump say?</h2>Trump had previously told reporters that "the land is going to be next," after the US military targeted several boats in the Caribbean and the eastern Pacific as part of its anti-drug operations. Now, on Friday, when asked if he was considering strikes inside Venezuela, he said "no". However, it is unclear if he was ruling out future strikes inside Venezuela or simply saying that his administration is yet to make a final decision.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/judges-order-trump-to-keep-food-aid-running-amid-shutdown-don-t-want-americans-to-go-hungry-1761963474050">Trump says 'do NOT want Americans to go hungry’ as judges order him to keep food aid running amid shutdown</a>In recent days, the United States has deployed fighter jets, warships, and thousands of troops across the region in recent months. That presence is set to grow further with the arrival of the USS Gerald Ford aircraft carrier strike group. While the White House insists the buildup is meant to combat Latin American drug cartels, Venezuelan officials have slammed it as preparation for aggression. Since September, US forces have struck at least 14 suspected smuggling vessels, killing 61 people. None of the attacks has taken place within Venezuela’s territorial waters.&nbsp;

Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro on Friday accused the United States of pushing an “extravagant” and “slanderous” narrative to justify an attack and regime change in Caracas.

Venezuela President Nicolás Maduro on Friday (Oct 31) once again accused the United States and its President Donald Trump of trying to impose a "narrative" to justify American attacks against Caracas and to trigger regime change. Addressing a meeting of Caribbean parliamentarians for peace in Caracas, Maduro alleged that the Americans "always want to impose a story, a narrative on us," calling the narrative "slanderous" and "extravagant". This comes as Trump, while talking to reporters aboard Air Force One, contradicted his earlier comments and denied that he was considering strikes inside Venezuela. Maduro slams Trump Speaking at a gathering of Caribbean parliamentarians, he said Washington was trying to portray Venezuela as a hub of international drug trafficking to build a case for military action. Accusing the US of wanting to seize the nation's vast oil wealth, Maduro alleged that the "narrative that American power has chosen against dignified, peaceful and Bolivarian Venezuela is an extravagant, lying and also slanderous narrative". Also read | Trump 'provoking a war in Caribbean'? Venezuela slams US exercises in Trinidad, claims arrest of CIA-backed mercenaries Maduro accused Washington of trying to justify a war to seize Venezuela’s vast oil and gas reserves. "The truth is that Venezuela is innocent and everything that is being done against Venezuela is to justify a war, a regime change and steal our immense oil wealth, which is the main oil reserve and the fourth gas reserve in the world," he said, urging Venezuelans to remain calm and united. His comments came as tensions between Caracas and Washington continued to rise, with US President Donald Trump denying that he was considering strikes inside Venezuela — a statement that appeared to contradict his earlier remarks. What did Trump say? Trump had previously told reporters that "the land is going to be next," after the US military targeted several boats in the Caribbean and the eastern Pacific as part of its anti-drug operations. Now, on Friday, when asked if he was considering strikes inside Venezuela, he said "no". However, it is unclear if he was ruling out future strikes inside Venezuela or simply saying that his administration is yet to make a final decision. Also read | Trump says 'do NOT want Americans to go hungry’ as judges order him to keep food aid running amid shutdown In recent days, the United States has deployed fighter jets, warships, and thousands of troops across the region in recent months. That presence is set to grow further with the arrival of the USS Gerald Ford aircraft carrier strike group. While the White House insists the buildup is meant to combat Latin American drug cartels, Venezuelan officials have slammed it as preparation for aggression. Since September, US forces have struck at least 14 suspected smuggling vessels, killing 61 people. None of the attacks has taken place within Venezuela’s territorial waters.

Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro on Friday accused the United States of pushing an “extravagant” and “slanderous” narrative to justify an attack and regime change in Caracas.

Trump says not considering strikes within Venezuela as Maduro accuses US of pushing ‘slanderous narrative’ to justify attack

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday announced that he had authorised covert CIA operations against Venezuela but dodged questions on whether he had green-lighted an attempt on the nation's leader, Nicolás Maduro. Speaking in the Oval Office, Trump framed his actions as part of a broader anti-drug campaign, citing Maduro’s alleged role as the leader of a "narco-terrorist" regime and releasing prisoners who make their way to the United States.<h2>Has Trump given the CIA an order to "take out" Maduro?</h2>When pressed directly on the explosive question of whether he had secretly given the CIA authority to “take out” Maduro, Trump sidestepped and labelled the query "ridiculous"."That's a ridiculous question for me to be given. Not really a ridiculous question, but wouldn't it be a ridiculous question for me to answer?" he said, offering no clear confirmation. However, his dodge has raised eyebrows on whether a covert CIA operation was going to do exactly that.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-i-don-t-want-to-destroy-his-political-career-trump-makes-bizarre-remark-about-pm-modi-1760580304027">‘I don’t want to destroy his political career’: Trump makes bizarre remark about PM Modi</a><h2>After international waters, US to strike Venezuelan land targets?</h2>Just a day after he announced yet another US strike on an alleged boat in the Caribbean — the latest in a series of naval strikes — Trump, on Wednesday, indicated the US may expand its operations against alleged Venezuelan drug cartels onto land. "We are certainly looking at land now, because we've got the sea very well under control." US strikes on suspected drug vessels have so far killed at least 27 people. Legal experts have questioned the legality of using lethal force in international waters against targets who have not been apprehended or interrogated.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/has-india-s-modi-promised-us-it-will-no-longer-buy-russian-oil-here-s-what-trump-claims-1760574591627">Did Modi promise US that India will no longer buy Russian oil? Here's what Trump claims</a><h2>Maduro slams Trump's "coups d'etat" attempt</h2>The US president’s comments drew a sharp reaction from Maduro, who decried US operations as “coups d’etat orchestrated by the CIA” and ordered military exercises across Venezuela, including shantytowns and coastal areas. "No to war in the Caribbean...No to regime change...No to coups d'etat orchestrated by the CIA," &nbsp;he said. The Venezuelan leader on Telegram, as per AFP, announced that he was mobilising the military, police, and a civilian militia to defend Venezuela's "mountains, coasts, schools, hospitals, factories and markets," against any potential US aggression.

When pressed directly on the explosive question of whether he had secretly given the CIA authority to “take out” Maduro, Trump sidestepped and labelled the query "ridiculous".

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday announced that he had authorised covert CIA operations against Venezuela but dodged questions on whether he had green-lighted an attempt on the nation's leader, Nicolás Maduro. Speaking in the Oval Office, Trump framed his actions as part of a broader anti-drug campaign, citing Maduro’s alleged role as the leader of a "narco-terrorist" regime and releasing prisoners who make their way to the United States. Has Trump given the CIA an order to "take out" Maduro? When pressed directly on the explosive question of whether he had secretly given the CIA authority to “take out” Maduro, Trump sidestepped and labelled the query "ridiculous". "That's a ridiculous question for me to be given. Not really a ridiculous question, but wouldn't it be a ridiculous question for me to answer?" he said, offering no clear confirmation. However, his dodge has raised eyebrows on whether a covert CIA operation was going to do exactly that. Also read | ‘I don’t want to destroy his political career’: Trump makes bizarre remark about PM Modi After international waters, US to strike Venezuelan land targets? Just a day after he announced yet another US strike on an alleged boat in the Caribbean — the latest in a series of naval strikes — Trump, on Wednesday, indicated the US may expand its operations against alleged Venezuelan drug cartels onto land. "We are certainly looking at land now, because we've got the sea very well under control." US strikes on suspected drug vessels have so far killed at least 27 people. Legal experts have questioned the legality of using lethal force in international waters against targets who have not been apprehended or interrogated. Also read | Did Modi promise US that India will no longer buy Russian oil? Here's what Trump claims Maduro slams Trump's "coups d'etat" attempt The US president’s comments drew a sharp reaction from Maduro, who decried US operations as “coups d’etat orchestrated by the CIA” and ordered military exercises across Venezuela, including shantytowns and coastal areas. "No to war in the Caribbean...No to regime change...No to coups d'etat orchestrated by the CIA," he said. The Venezuelan leader on Telegram, as per AFP, announced that he was mobilising the military, police, and a civilian militia to defend Venezuela's "mountains, coasts, schools, hospitals, factories and markets," against any potential US aggression.

When pressed directly on the explosive question of whether he had secretly given the CIA authority to “take out” Maduro, Trump sidestepped and labelled the query "ridiculous".

‘Ridiculous question’: Trump dodges question on whether he ordered CIA to 'take out' Maduro

Venezuela has begun three days of military exercises, putting on display its Russian-built fighter jets in a show of strength against the United States. The drills, called “Sovereign Caribbean 200”, were launched on the island of La Orchila and involve more than 2,500 troops. The exercises will include air, sea and land operations, with 12 naval ships, 22 aircraft and around 20 boats taking part, Defence Minister Vladimir Padrino confirmed on state television.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-one-apology-can-restart-gaza-peace-talks-but-will-netanyahu-apologise-to-qatar-1758436524409">'One apology' can restart Gaza peace talks, but will Netanyahu apologise to Qatar?</a><h2>What message is Caracas sending to Washington?</h2>Footage broadcast in Venezuela showed troops landing on beaches, amphibious craft in action and fighter jets flying over the Caribbean. Padrino said the operations were part of the country’s response to the US deploying warships to the region.Washington has insisted the ships, including three Arleigh Burke-class destroyers, the cruiser Lake Erie, the amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima and a nuclear-powered submarine, are there to fight drug trafficking. But President Nicolás Maduro has argued the deployment is aimed at forcing regime change.<h2>How is the US responding?</h2>The drills began shortly after US President Donald Trump claimed American forces had struck three boats in the Caribbean linked to drug smuggling from Venezuela. The first strike on 2 September targeted a vessel allegedly tied to the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua and left 11 people dead. On Monday, Trump announced a second strike against what he called “narcoterrorists,” killing three more. A day later, he told reporters, “We knocked off three boats, actually, not two. But you saw two.”<h2>What role do Russian jets play?</h2>Alongside the exercises, Venezuela showcased Russian-made Sukhoi Su-30 fighter jets fitted with Kh-31 “Krypton” anti-ship missiles. A video posted by its air force showed the aircraft on the ground with missiles attached, and in flight. Reports suggest Venezuela bought these missiles from Russia between 2007 and 2008. According to the International Institute for Strategic Studies, the country operates 21 Su-30MK2 fighters, though it is unclear how many remain serviceable due to years of economic crisis.A Venezuelan NGO, Control Ciudadano, has previously raised concerns about military air accidents, blaming poor maintenance, ageing systems and a lack of spare parts. Caracas insists it has millions of militiamen deployed across the country. Maduro has repeatedly warned that “no empire will touch the sacred soil of Venezuela.”

Venezuela launched large-scale “Sovereign Caribbean 200” military drills featuring Russian Sukhoi jets and naval forces, showcasing power against US warships in the Caribbean amid rising tensions, narcoterrorism claims, and Maduro’s defiance.

Venezuela has begun three days of military exercises, putting on display its Russian-built fighter jets in a show of strength against the United States. The drills, called “Sovereign Caribbean 200”, were launched on the island of La Orchila and involve more than 2,500 troops. The exercises will include air, sea and land operations, with 12 naval ships, 22 aircraft and around 20 boats taking part, Defence Minister Vladimir Padrino confirmed on state television. Also read: 'One apology' can restart Gaza peace talks, but will Netanyahu apologise to Qatar? What message is Caracas sending to Washington? Footage broadcast in Venezuela showed troops landing on beaches, amphibious craft in action and fighter jets flying over the Caribbean. Padrino said the operations were part of the country’s response to the US deploying warships to the region. Washington has insisted the ships, including three Arleigh Burke-class destroyers, the cruiser Lake Erie, the amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima and a nuclear-powered submarine, are there to fight drug trafficking. But President Nicolás Maduro has argued the deployment is aimed at forcing regime change. How is the US responding? The drills began shortly after US President Donald Trump claimed American forces had struck three boats in the Caribbean linked to drug smuggling from Venezuela. The first strike on 2 September targeted a vessel allegedly tied to the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua and left 11 people dead. On Monday, Trump announced a second strike against what he called “narcoterrorists,” killing three more. A day later, he told reporters, “We knocked off three boats, actually, not two. But you saw two.” What role do Russian jets play? Alongside the exercises, Venezuela showcased Russian-made Sukhoi Su-30 fighter jets fitted with Kh-31 “Krypton” anti-ship missiles. A video posted by its air force showed the aircraft on the ground with missiles attached, and in flight. Reports suggest Venezuela bought these missiles from Russia between 2007 and 2008. According to the International Institute for Strategic Studies, the country operates 21 Su-30MK2 fighters, though it is unclear how many remain serviceable due to years of economic crisis. A Venezuelan NGO, Control Ciudadano, has previously raised concerns about military air accidents, blaming poor maintenance, ageing systems and a lack of spare parts. Caracas insists it has millions of militiamen deployed across the country. Maduro has repeatedly warned that “no empire will touch the sacred soil of Venezuela.”

Venezuela launched large-scale “Sovereign Caribbean 200” military drills featuring Russian Sukhoi jets and naval forces, showcasing power against US warships in the Caribbean amid rising tensions, narcoterrorism claims, and Maduro’s defiance.

Provoking US? Venezuela flexing its military muscle with Russian jets

US President Donald Trump continued with his stream of provocative remarks on Venezuela, insisting that Venezuelan ‘leadership’ should accept all the prisoners and mental patients in the US. Despite no concrete evidence to support the claim, the United States have long accused Venezuela of harbouring thousands of criminals and mental patients. He labelled them as ‘Monsters’.&nbsp;‘Thousands of people have been badly hurt, and even killed, by these “Monsters”’, said Trump in a Truth Social post.&nbsp;Read Also: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-has-us-stationed-3-warships-off-venezuela-coast-nicolas-maduro-slams-regime-change-attempts-mentions-china-1756006152982">Why has US stationed 3 warships off Venezuela coast? Nicolas Maduro slams 'regime change attempts', mentions China</a>

Trump warned Venezuelan ‘leadership’ to 'get them all out now' or there will be &nbsp;‘incalculable’ consequences. Earlier today, Trump said that the United States launched attacks on a vessel allegedly carrying individuals involved with a ‘Designated Terrorist Organisation’ involved in nacrotrafficiking in the USSOUTHCOM area, and killing three in the process. A similar attack happened on another vessel on September 15 (Monday). Two weeks ago US attacked another speedboat, alleging them part of a drug cartel, and killed 11 on board.&nbsp;&nbsp;These are part of the ongoing US campaign against Venezuela. US Defence Secretary &nbsp;Pete Hegseth warned that the United States will "track them, kill them, and dismantle their networks throughout our hemisphere − at the times and places of our choosing." Trump had been trying to use a pressure tactic against Nicolás Maduro's regime, to justify forceful extradition by invoking images of prisoners and mental patients and portraying himself as a strong-willed leader. Trump earlier in September dispatched eight warships to international waters near Venezuela to pressure Maduro. The US administration portrays the leftist Maduro regime as a 'bad actor' in the neighbourhood. Maduro called US Secretary of State Marco Rubio a "lord of death and war" and said that Caracas will fully exercise its "legitimate right to defend itself."&nbsp;Read Also: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-50-million-reward-who-is-nicol-s-maduro-and-why-is-venezuelan-president-wanted-in-us-1754622441247">Who is Nicolas Maduro? Venezuelan president targeted by the Trump administration</a>&nbsp;The US narrative also justifies its tough immigration policies and deporting Latin Americans to maximum security prisons in El Salvador under the Alien Enemies Act. According to a declassified US intelligence memo contradicts the claim that the Tren de Aragua gang was operating at the direction of the Venezuelan government to destabilise the US, a justification often given by the US administration for its Alien Enemies Act.&nbsp;&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump is demanding the acceptance of prisoners and mental patients in the US. Despite no concrete evidence, Trump labels them as ‘Monsters’ and warns of ‘incalculable’ consequences. 

US President Donald Trump continued with his stream of provocative remarks on Venezuela, insisting that Venezuelan ‘leadership’ should accept all the prisoners and mental patients in the US. Despite no concrete evidence to support the claim, the United States have long accused Venezuela of harbouring thousands of criminals and mental patients. He labelled them as ‘Monsters’. ‘Thousands of people have been badly hurt, and even killed, by these “Monsters”’, said Trump in a Truth Social post. Read Also: Why has US stationed 3 warships off Venezuela coast? Nicolas Maduro slams 'regime change attempts', mentions China

US President Donald Trump is demanding the acceptance of prisoners and mental patients in the US. Despite no concrete evidence, Trump labels them as ‘Monsters’ and warns of ‘incalculable’ consequences.&nbsp;

'Monsters'- Trump threatens ‘incalculable consequences’ if Venezuela doesn’t accept prisoners in US

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