Venezuela shipped 113 metric tons of gold worth $5.2 billion to Switzerland between 2013 and 2016 to support its economy. Exports stopped after 2017 following the imposition of international sanctions.

Venezuela shipped 113 metric tons of gold worth $5.2 billion to Switzerland between 2013 and 2016 to support its economy. Exports stopped after 2017 following the imposition of international sanctions.

Why did Maduro move $5.2 billion worth of gold to Switzerland?

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Monday called for respect of nations' political independence following a US military operation in Venezuela that Washington defended as a police action against Caracas's "fugitive" leader. US forces seized Nicolas Maduro and his wife over the weekend, bringing to an end 12 years of increasingly authoritarian rule by the left-wing leader, whom Washington accused of running a cartel and targeted with a $50 million bounty.&nbsp;Guterres urges "respect for the principles of sovereignty, political independence and territorial integrity of states," according to remarks read on his behalf by Under-Secretary-General Rosemary DiCarlo during an emergency UN Security Council meeting on the crisis. "I am deeply concerned about the possible intensification instability in the country, the potential impact on the region, and the precedent it may set for how relations between and among states are conducted," the UN chief's remarks said.&nbsp;Colombia a new member of the Security Council that formally requested the meeting, and whose leader Gustavo Petro has clashed with Donald Trump also expressed concerns about US intentions. The UN Charter permits "the use of force only under exceptional circumstances in legitimate defense, in the face of an armed attack or when there is an express authorization by this Council," said Colombian ambassador Leonor Zalabata Torres. Even then, "this does not amount to assuming political control of another state," she added.&nbsp;<h2>'Era of lawlessness'&nbsp;</h2>&nbsp;US Ambassador Mike Waltz defended what he described as a "surgical law enforcement operation facilitated by the US military against two indicted fugitives of American justice, narco-terrorist Nicolas Maduro and Cilia Flores," his wife."As Secretary Rubio has said, there is no war against Venezuela or its people. We are not occupying a country," Waltz said.&nbsp;He added nonetheless that "you cannot continue to have the largest energy reserves in the world under the control of adversaries of the United States."&nbsp;US ally Britain called during the meeting for a "safe and peaceful transition to a legitimate government," with its acting UN representative, James Kariuki, saying Venezuelans "deserve a government which reflects their vote at the ballot box."&nbsp;Some Security Council members criticized Washington's actions, including Venezuelan allies Russia and China, which demanded Maduro's release. Russian ambassador Vassily Nebenzia slammed the US operation that seized Maduro as a “harbinger of a turn back to the era of lawlessness and US domination by force.” "We hope that you will abandon double standards and that you will not attempt to justify such an egregious act of aggression," Nebenzia said.Venezuela's representative Samuel Moncada asked for the Security Council's support in demanding the United States "fully respect the immunities of President Nicolas Maduro and First Lady Cilia Flores." Maduro and his wife both appeared at a New York court on Monday, entering pleas of not guilty.&nbsp;&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience. &nbsp;

Guterres urges "respect for the principles of sovereignty, political independence and territorial integrity of states," according to remarks read on his behalf by Under-Secretary-General Rosemary DiCarlo during an emergency UN Security Council meeting on the crisis.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Monday called for respect of nations' political independence following a US military operation in Venezuela that Washington defended as a police action against Caracas's "fugitive" leader. US forces seized Nicolas Maduro and his wife over the weekend, bringing to an end 12 years of increasingly authoritarian rule by the left-wing leader, whom Washington accused of running a cartel and targeted with a $50 million bounty. Guterres urges "respect for the principles of sovereignty, political independence and territorial integrity of states," according to remarks read on his behalf by Under-Secretary-General Rosemary DiCarlo during an emergency UN Security Council meeting on the crisis. "I am deeply concerned about the possible intensification instability in the country, the potential impact on the region, and the precedent it may set for how relations between and among states are conducted," the UN chief's remarks said. Colombia a new member of the Security Council that formally requested the meeting, and whose leader Gustavo Petro has clashed with Donald Trump also expressed concerns about US intentions. The UN Charter permits "the use of force only under exceptional circumstances in legitimate defense, in the face of an armed attack or when there is an express authorization by this Council," said Colombian ambassador Leonor Zalabata Torres. Even then, "this does not amount to assuming political control of another state," she added. 'Era of lawlessness' US Ambassador Mike Waltz defended what he described as a "surgical law enforcement operation facilitated by the US military against two indicted fugitives of American justice, narco-terrorist Nicolas Maduro and Cilia Flores," his wife. "As Secretary Rubio has said, there is no war against Venezuela or its people. We are not occupying a country," Waltz said. He added nonetheless that "you cannot continue to have the largest energy reserves in the world under the control of adversaries of the United States." US ally Britain called during the meeting for a "safe and peaceful transition to a legitimate government," with its acting UN representative, James Kariuki, saying Venezuelans "deserve a government which reflects their vote at the ballot box." Some Security Council members criticized Washington's actions, including Venezuelan allies Russia and China, which demanded Maduro's release. Russian ambassador Vassily Nebenzia slammed the US operation that seized Maduro as a “harbinger of a turn back to the era of lawlessness and US domination by force.” "We hope that you will abandon double standards and that you will not attempt to justify such an egregious act of aggression," Nebenzia said. Venezuela's representative Samuel Moncada asked for the Security Council's support in demanding the United States "fully respect the immunities of President Nicolas Maduro and First Lady Cilia Flores." Maduro and his wife both appeared at a New York court on Monday, entering pleas of not guilty. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Guterres urges "respect for the principles of sovereignty, political independence and territorial integrity of states," according to remarks read on his behalf by Under-Secretary-General Rosemary DiCarlo during an emergency UN Security Council meeting on the crisis.

UN chief urges 'respect' for sovereignty at Venezuela emergency meeting

Nicolás Maduro pleaded not guilty to US narco-terrorism charges in New York. The ousted leader claimed he was kidnapped following a military raid in Caracas. 

Nicolás Maduro pleaded not guilty to US narco-terrorism charges in New York. The ousted leader claimed he was kidnapped following a military raid in Caracas.&nbsp;

‘I was kidnapped’: Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro pleads not guilty in US court

Even as shockwaves run through Cuba, Greenland and Colombia over the next move by the United States after the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, Denmark's Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen urged America to stop "threatening" Greenland. Trump has claimed, again and again, that making the Danish territory part of the United States would serve US national security interests, given its strategic location on the Arctic. Frederiksen clearly stated that the US has no right to annex any of the three nations in the Danish kingdom. Greenland has a population of 57,000 people, has had extensive self-government since 1979, though defence and foreign policy remain in Danish hands. It is also rich in key critical minerals used in high-tech sectors.&nbsp;"I have to say this very clearly to the United States: it is absolutely absurd to say that the United States should take control of Greenland…It makes absolutely no sense to talk about the need for the United States to take over Greenland…The US has no right to annex any of the three nations in the Danish kingdom," Frederiksen said in a statement late Sunday. She also added, “I would therefore strongly urge the United States to stop the threats against a historically close ally and against another country and another people who have very clearly said that they are not for sale.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Greenland's Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen also criticised Katie Miller's post calling it “disrespectful." "Relations between nations and peoples are built on mutual respect and international law -- not on symbolic gestures that disregard our status and our rights," he stated on X. But he also said that “there is neither reason for panic nor for concern. Our country is not for sale, and our future is not decided by social media posts.” Denmark's ambassador to the US, Jesper Moeller Soerensen, also reacted saying “we expect full respect for the territorial integrity.”<h2>Is Greenland next?</h2>Even as Danish PM pushed back, Trump, while speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, said, “We need Greenland from the standpoint of national security, and Denmark is not going to be able to do it.” Addressing the media after the capture of Maduro, Trump had said, “We need Greenland. We do need Greenland, absolutely...[It's] surrounded by Russia and Chinese ship.” He added ‘national security’ as a reason for his demand. Meanwhile, Katie Miller, wife of Trump's deputy chief of staff Stephen Miller, posted the contentious image of the Danish autonomous territory in the colours of the US flag on her X feed. She captioned the post as “SOON,” igniting conversation that the US may try to bring Greenland under its control next. Stephen Miller is widely seen as the architect of much of Trump's policies, AFP reported.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">🚨 BREAKING: President Trump just said &quot;WE NEED GREENLAND&quot; and that Venezuela might NOT be the last country subject to American intervention Trump is RE-TAKING the entire Western Hemisphere from our adversaries 🔥 &quot;We do need Greenland, absolutely...[It&#39;s] surrounded by Russia… <a href="https://t.co/XEfQtIq9AO">pic.twitter.com/XEfQtIq9AO</a>&mdash; Eric Daugherty (@EricLDaugh) <a href="https://twitter.com/EricLDaugh/status/2007872358791450718?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 4, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Trump from the start of his presidency in 2025 has maintained that Greenland is essential for US national security. Trump has earlier dismissed Denmark's historical claim to the territory, remarking, "They say that Denmark was there 300 years ago... well we were there with boats too, I'm sure". In December 2025, Trump appointed Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry as a special envoy to Greenland. Landry has publicly stated his role is to help "make Greenland a part of the US." Back in 2019, Trump had &nbsp;first proposed the idea of "buying Greenland" describing it as a "strategic real estate acquisition."&nbsp;&nbsp;

<h3>US bombs Venezuela, captures and jails Maduro</h3>In an operation titled Operation Absolute Resolve, the US, on Saturday (Jan 3), entered Venezuela, bombed Caracas and captured Venezuela's President Nicolas Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores from their presidential palace. Maduro was flown to USS Iwo Jima, then to Guantánamo Bay, and finally by government plane to Stewart Air National Guard Base in NY. He is held at Brooklyn’s notorious Metropolitan Detention Center, and he faces narco-terrorism charges. He is set to appear in Manhattan federal court on Jan 5.

After the US captured Venezuela’s Nicolas Maduro, fears grew over Washington’s next move. Denmark PM Mette Frederiksen firmly rejected US claims on Greenland, calling annexation absurd.

Even as shockwaves run through Cuba, Greenland and Colombia over the next move by the United States after the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, Denmark's Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen urged America to stop "threatening" Greenland. Trump has claimed, again and again, that making the Danish territory part of the United States would serve US national security interests, given its strategic location on the Arctic. Frederiksen clearly stated that the US has no right to annex any of the three nations in the Danish kingdom. Greenland has a population of 57,000 people, has had extensive self-government since 1979, though defence and foreign policy remain in Danish hands. It is also rich in key critical minerals used in high-tech sectors. "I have to say this very clearly to the United States: it is absolutely absurd to say that the United States should take control of Greenland…It makes absolutely no sense to talk about the need for the United States to take over Greenland…The US has no right to annex any of the three nations in the Danish kingdom," Frederiksen said in a statement late Sunday. She also added, “I would therefore strongly urge the United States to stop the threats against a historically close ally and against another country and another people who have very clearly said that they are not for sale.” Greenland's Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen also criticised Katie Miller's post calling it “disrespectful." "Relations between nations and peoples are built on mutual respect and international law -- not on symbolic gestures that disregard our status and our rights," he stated on X. But he also said that “there is neither reason for panic nor for concern. Our country is not for sale, and our future is not decided by social media posts.” Denmark's ambassador to the US, Jesper Moeller Soerensen, also reacted saying “we expect full respect for the territorial integrity.” Is Greenland next? Even as Danish PM pushed back, Trump, while speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, said, “We need Greenland from the standpoint of national security, and Denmark is not going to be able to do it.” Addressing the media after the capture of Maduro, Trump had said, “We need Greenland. We do need Greenland, absolutely...[It's] surrounded by Russia and Chinese ship.” He added ‘national security’ as a reason for his demand. Meanwhile, Katie Miller, wife of Trump's deputy chief of staff Stephen Miller, posted the contentious image of the Danish autonomous territory in the colours of the US flag on her X feed. She captioned the post as “SOON,” igniting conversation that the US may try to bring Greenland under its control next. Stephen Miller is widely seen as the architect of much of Trump's policies, AFP reported.

After the US captured Venezuela’s Nicolas Maduro, fears grew over Washington’s next move. Denmark PM Mette Frederiksen firmly rejected US claims on Greenland, calling annexation absurd.

'US has no right to annex...': Denmark panics after Trump says 'we need Greenland'; ‘SOON’ post sparks alarm after Venezuela strike

The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) is set to convene an emergency meeting on Monday (Dec 05) to discuss the US military's "Operation Absolute Resolve" that led to the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores from Caracas. The UN decision comes following several nations, including Colombia, Iran and South Africa termed the US action as a violation of international law and sought the world body's intervention against America's unilateral actions. The meeting to discuss the United States' action under the agenda of "Threats to international peace and security" is scheduled for 10 AM local time on Monday, as per the Council presidency.&nbsp;At present, Somalia is serving as the rotating president of the 15-member UN Security Council, consisting of five permanent members and 10 non-permanent members for January.&nbsp;As of January 2026, the United Nations Security Council comprises 15 members, including five permanent members: the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Russia, and China, and ten non-permanent members: Bahrain, Colombia, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Latvia, Liberia, Denmark, Greece, Pakistan, Panama, and Somalia.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-s-100-billion-in-loans-at-stake-in-venezuela-after-us-captures-maduro-1767522844314">China’s $100 billion in loans at stake in Venezuela after US captures Maduro</a>&nbsp;Colombian President Gustavo Petro was the first to call for an emergency United Nations meeting after the US military operation against Venezuela "As members of the United Nations Security Council, we seek to convene the Council. The Government of Colombia rejects the aggression against the sovereignty of Venezuela and of Latin America. Internal conflicts between people are resolved by those same people in peace. That is the principle of the self-determination of peoples, which forms the foundation of the United Nations system," Petro said in a post on X.&nbsp;Addressing a press conference over the US operation in Venezuela, President Donald Trump issued a stark warning to other neighbouring countries such as Cuba, Colombia and Mexico. In a direct threat to Colombian President Gustavo Petro, Trump said, "He's making cocaine. They're sending it into the United States. So he does have to watch his a**." On Saturday, President Donald Trump confirmed that the US military carried out a "large-scale strike against Venezuela" and that the deposed dictator, Nicolas Maduro and his wife had been captured and taken out of the country.&nbsp;Following the attack, UN Secretary-General António Guterres voiced deep concern over developments in Venezuela, warning that the situation could have serious consequences for the wider region.&nbsp;In a statement released by his spokesperson, Stéphane Dujarric, Guterres said that regardless of the circumstances in Venezuela, such actions set a dangerous precedent and highlighted the need for all parties to fully respect international law, including strict adherence to the UN Charter.&nbsp;

Several countries, including Cuba, Colombia and South Africa, called the US strikes in Venezuela a violation of international law and sought intervention of the United Nations. 

The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) is set to convene an emergency meeting on Monday (Dec 05) to discuss the US military's "Operation Absolute Resolve" that led to the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores from Caracas. The UN decision comes following several nations, including Colombia, Iran and South Africa termed the US action as a violation of international law and sought the world body's intervention against America's unilateral actions. The meeting to discuss the United States' action under the agenda of "Threats to international peace and security" is scheduled for 10 AM local time on Monday, as per the Council presidency. At present, Somalia is serving as the rotating president of the 15-member UN Security Council, consisting of five permanent members and 10 non-permanent members for January. As of January 2026, the United Nations Security Council comprises 15 members, including five permanent members: the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Russia, and China, and ten non-permanent members: Bahrain, Colombia, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Latvia, Liberia, Denmark, Greece, Pakistan, Panama, and Somalia. Also Read: China’s $100 billion in loans at stake in Venezuela after US captures Maduro Colombian President Gustavo Petro was the first to call for an emergency United Nations meeting after the US military operation against Venezuela "As members of the United Nations Security Council, we seek to convene the Council. The Government of Colombia rejects the aggression against the sovereignty of Venezuela and of Latin America. Internal conflicts between people are resolved by those same people in peace. That is the principle of the self-determination of peoples, which forms the foundation of the United Nations system," Petro said in a post on X. Addressing a press conference over the US operation in Venezuela, President Donald Trump issued a stark warning to other neighbouring countries such as Cuba, Colombia and Mexico. In a direct threat to Colombian President Gustavo Petro, Trump said, "He's making cocaine. They're sending it into the United States. So he does have to watch his a**." On Saturday, President Donald Trump confirmed that the US military carried out a "large-scale strike against Venezuela" and that the deposed dictator, Nicolas Maduro and his wife had been captured and taken out of the country. Following the attack, UN Secretary-General António Guterres voiced deep concern over developments in Venezuela, warning that the situation could have serious consequences for the wider region. In a statement released by his spokesperson, Stéphane Dujarric, Guterres said that regardless of the circumstances in Venezuela, such actions set a dangerous precedent and highlighted the need for all parties to fully respect international law, including strict adherence to the UN Charter.

Several countries, including Cuba, Colombia and South Africa, called the US strikes in Venezuela a violation of international law and sought intervention of the United Nations.&nbsp;

UNSC summons emergency session after US military action in Venezuela

Few people realise that the Castro regime didn't just use Venezuelan oil to keep the lights on, they used it as a major source of income by selling the surplus. 

Few people realise that the Castro regime didn't just use Venezuelan oil to keep the lights on, they used it as a major source of income by selling the surplus.&nbsp;

'Got free oil from Venezuela': Why Cuba's collapse looks inevitable after capture of Nicholas Maduro

While Nicolas Maduro is in US custody, his inner circle, including Delcy Rodriguez and Padrino Lopez, maintains control over Venezuela’s military and state institutions under a state of emergency.

While Nicolas Maduro is in US custody, his inner circle, including Delcy Rodriguez and Padrino Lopez, maintains control over Venezuela’s military and state institutions under a state of emergency.

Top 5 allies of Nicholas Maduro that still hold power in Venezuela

Here is the breakdown of the 7 world leaders, including some dictators ruling their countries for several years, who could be panicking after watching Nicolás Maduro’s capture

Here is the breakdown of the 7 world leaders, including some dictators ruling their countries for several years, who could be panicking after watching Nicolás Maduro’s capture

Who's next? 7 dictators and leaders who won't sleep peacefully after Nicholas Maduro’s extraction

North Korea’s ballistic missile tests violate multiple UN Security Council resolutions, specifically Resolution 1718, which bans the use of ballistic technology. However, Pyongyang argues these tests are a sovereign right to self-defence under Article 51 of the UN Charter.


North Korea’s ballistic missile tests violate multiple UN Security Council resolutions, specifically Resolution 1718, which bans the use of ballistic technology. However, Pyongyang argues these tests are a sovereign right to self-defence under Article 51 of the UN Charter.

Is it illegal? What international law says about North Korea’s missile tests

Venezuela’s shift to socialism under Nicholas Maduro led to hyperinflation, 80 per cent poverty, and the exodus of 7.7 million people. 

Venezuela’s shift to socialism under Nicholas Maduro led to hyperinflation, 80 per cent poverty, and the exodus of 7.7 million people.&nbsp;

What is socialism and how it turned Venezuela into a living hell under Nicholas Maduro

The DEA is the lead US agency enforcing drug laws and disrupting global trafficking networks. Established in 1973, it operates in 69 countries to seize assets and dismantle cartels.

The DEA is the lead US agency enforcing drug laws and disrupting global trafficking networks. Established in 1973, it operates in 69 countries to seize assets and dismantle cartels.

What is DEA? All about the US agency that escorted Nicholas Maduro’s arrival in New York

Since WWII, the US has adopted regime change policies via covert methods like protests and overt military interventions to advance its economic and political goals. Scholar Jeffrey Sachs notes over 100 such operations since 1947. Here are some major 21st-century examples.

Since WWII, the US has adopted regime change policies via covert methods like protests and overt military interventions to advance its economic and political goals. Scholar Jeffrey Sachs notes over 100 such operations since 1947. Here are some major 21st-century examples.

From Saddam Hussein to Nicolás Maduro: US regime-change operations in the 21st century

US elite forces captured Nicolas Maduro after months of secret rehearsals. The audacious raid in Caracas ended with Maduro facing federal charges in New York.

US elite forces captured Nicolas Maduro after months of secret rehearsals. The audacious raid in Caracas ended with Maduro facing federal charges in New York.

Venezuela President captured: How months of planning and rehearsals by US forces led to the capture

Donald Trump shared the first photo of captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro aboard the US warship USS Iwo Jima on his Truth Social platform after his capture by the US armed forces during a massive midnight operation in Caracas and several other parts of the country. The picture showed the now-deposed Venezuelan president handcuffed and blindfolded.&nbsp;Earlier, President Donald Trump told Fox &amp; Friends Weekend that Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife were taken by helicopter to the USS Iwo Jima following their capture in Caracas on Saturday morning.&nbsp;During the interview, when asked about the whereabouts of the couple, Trump replied, “Well, they'll be heading to New York.” When Jenkins clarified if they were taken to a ship first, Trump confirmed: “Yes, the Iwo Jima. They’ll be heading into New York. The helicopters took them out, and they went by helicopter on a nice flight.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BREAKING?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BREAKING</a> | Donald Trump shares a picture of Nicolas Maduro on board the USS Iwo Jima <a href="https://t.co/FO5ePLcZ2V">pic.twitter.com/FO5ePLcZ2V</a>&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/2007489570661969963?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Hours after the operation, the US president, during a press conference on Saturday from his Mar-a-Lago estate that the United States will "run" Venezuela until a political transition can occur, after the spectacular US military operation to remove Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro from the country.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-will-be-strongly-involved-in-venezuela-oil-industry-trump-says-after-maduro-s-capture-1767456938870">US will be ‘strongly involved’ in Venezuela oil industry, Trump says after Maduro’s capture</a>&nbsp;"We're going to run the country until such time as we can do a safe, proper and judicious transition," Trump told a press conference, adding that US forces were ready to conduct a second, "much bigger" wave of strikes if necessary.&nbsp;Venezuela, home to the world’s largest proven oil reserves, has long been at odds with the United States. Washington has justified its pressure campaign through the language of the “war on drugs,” allegations of dictatorship, and accusations of communist rule, even as control over Venezuela’s vast oil resources has remained a central underlying issue.

Earlier, Trump revealed that the Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores were being brought to New York to face federal charges.

Donald Trump shared the first photo of captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro aboard the US warship USS Iwo Jima on his Truth Social platform after his capture by the US armed forces during a massive midnight operation in Caracas and several other parts of the country. The picture showed the now-deposed Venezuelan president handcuffed and blindfolded. Earlier, President Donald Trump told Fox & Friends Weekend that Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife were taken by helicopter to the USS Iwo Jima following their capture in Caracas on Saturday morning. During the interview, when asked about the whereabouts of the couple, Trump replied, “Well, they'll be heading to New York.” When Jenkins clarified if they were taken to a ship first, Trump confirmed: “Yes, the Iwo Jima. They’ll be heading into New York. The helicopters took them out, and they went by helicopter on a nice flight.”

Earlier, Trump revealed that the Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores were being brought to New York to face federal charges.

Trump releases first image of first image of Venezuela's captured Nicolás Maduro aboard USS Iwo Jima

According to CNN, US forces captured Nicolas Maduro and his wife in a Caracas raid. The couple was dragged from their bedroom and is being transported to New York to face criminal charges.

According to CNN, US forces captured Nicolas Maduro and his wife in a Caracas raid. The couple was dragged from their bedroom and is being transported to New York to face criminal charges.

Venezuela President captured: US forces dragged Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores from their bedroom during the operation

After US launched an attack on the &nbsp;on Venezuelan capital Caracas on Saturday (Jan 3), Venezuela requested an urgent UN Security Council meeting, announced &nbsp;Foreign Minister Yvan Gil. "In response to the criminal aggression perpetrated by the US government against our nation, we have requested an urgent meeting of the United Nations Security Council, the body responsible for upholding international law," Gil said on Telegram.&nbsp;"No cowardly attack will prevail against the strength of this people, who will emerge victorious," he further said.&nbsp;At least seven explosions rang out and low-flying aircraft swept through the capital early Saturday. Explosions in Caracas forced people to look for shelter on the streets, while several took to social media to share videos and talk about the blasts they had been a witness to.&nbsp;Just after the attack US President Donald Trump confirmed that the United States carried out “large scale” strikes against Venezuela. He also said that he has “captured” the Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, and flown out of the country. He added that the operation was done in “conjunction” with the US law enforcement.&nbsp;Taking to Truth Social Trump wrote, “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 11 A.M., at Mar-a-Lago. Thank you for your attention to this matter! President DONALD J. TRUMP."

At least seven explosions rang out and low-flying aircraft swept through the Venezuelan capital Caracas early Saturday.

After US launched an attack on the on Venezuelan capital Caracas on Saturday (Jan 3), Venezuela requested an urgent UN Security Council meeting, announced Foreign Minister Yvan Gil. "In response to the criminal aggression perpetrated by the US government against our nation, we have requested an urgent meeting of the United Nations Security Council, the body responsible for upholding international law," Gil said on Telegram. "No cowardly attack will prevail against the strength of this people, who will emerge victorious," he further said. At least seven explosions rang out and low-flying aircraft swept through the capital early Saturday. Explosions in Caracas forced people to look for shelter on the streets, while several took to social media to share videos and talk about the blasts they had been a witness to. Just after the attack US President Donald Trump confirmed that the United States carried out “large scale” strikes against Venezuela. He also said that he has “captured” the Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, and flown out of the country. He added that the operation was done in “conjunction” with the US law enforcement. Taking to Truth Social Trump wrote, “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 11 A.M., at Mar-a-Lago. Thank you for your attention to this matter! President DONALD J. TRUMP."

At least seven explosions rang out and low-flying aircraft swept through the Venezuelan capital Caracas early Saturday.

Venezuela requests urgent UN Security Council meeting after US attack

US forces have captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. This move has sparked fears of oil price volatility, though a global supply glut may limit the long-term impact on fuel costs.

US forces have captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. This move has sparked fears of oil price volatility, though a global supply glut may limit the long-term impact on fuel costs.

Venezuela President captured: What it means for global oil prices

The United States captured Venezuela's President Nicholas Maduro along with his wife in military strikes on Saturday (Jan 03). Donald Trump termed these raids as "a brilliant operation" as his attorney vowed that the Venezuelan leader will face "full wrath" of American Justice. Maduro now faces serious charges of narco-terror and multiple conspiracies against the United States that can lead to imprisonment for the rest of his life.&nbsp;Attorney General Pamela Bondi, in a post on X, said, “Nicolas Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, have been indicted in the Southern District of New York. &nbsp;Nicolas Maduro has been charged with Narco-Terrorism Conspiracy, Cocaine Importation Conspiracy, Possession of Machineguns and Destructive Devices, and Conspiracy to Possess Machineguns and Destructive Devices against the United States”.&nbsp;However, these developments follow a similar sequence of events when another Latin American leader was captured by the United States military exactly 36 years ago in Panama on January 3, 1960.<h2>What happened in Noriega's case</h2>To contemplate what the future holds for Nicholas Maduro, the events from 1989–90, when the United States moved against Panama’s military ruler, Manuel Noriega, provide insights.&nbsp;In December 1989, then US President George H.W. Bush launched "Operation Just Cause", deploying nearly 20,000 American troops to Panama to remove Noriega from power on charges related to drug trafficking and corruption similar to what Maduro faces.&nbsp;Although Maduro's capture was swift and took a few hours for the US military, whereas Noriega evaded immediate capture and sought refuge in the Vatican’s diplomatic mission in Panama City, where he remained holed up for weeks. During the standoff, US troops resorted to psychological pressure, blasting loud rock music, including Welcome to the Jungle by Guns N’ Roses and Paranoid by Black Sabbath, to force him out.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-it-was-a-brilliant-operation-says-trump-after-us-captures-maduro-and-his-wife-1767440566177">‘It was a brilliant operation,’ says Trump after US captures Maduro and his wife</a>&nbsp;Noriega eventually surrendered in January 1990 and was flown to the United States to face trial. Once in US custody, he fought a prolonged legal battle to be recognised as a prisoner of war (POW) rather than a common criminal.&nbsp;US courts ultimately granted him POW status, entitling him to limited privileges, including less restrictive detention conditions. &nbsp;After spending nearly two decades in US prisons, Noriega was extradited to France and later transferred back to Panama, where he died in 2017at the age of 83.&nbsp;

The United States viewed Maduro as an ideological rival and, in 2020, declared him a wanted criminal, placing a bounty on his head over alleged involvement in drug smuggling and corruption.

The United States captured Venezuela's President Nicholas Maduro along with his wife in military strikes on Saturday (Jan 03). Donald Trump termed these raids as "a brilliant operation" as his attorney vowed that the Venezuelan leader will face "full wrath" of American Justice. Maduro now faces serious charges of narco-terror and multiple conspiracies against the United States that can lead to imprisonment for the rest of his life. Attorney General Pamela Bondi, in a post on X, said, “Nicolas Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, have been indicted in the Southern District of New York. Nicolas Maduro has been charged with Narco-Terrorism Conspiracy, Cocaine Importation Conspiracy, Possession of Machineguns and Destructive Devices, and Conspiracy to Possess Machineguns and Destructive Devices against the United States”. However, these developments follow a similar sequence of events when another Latin American leader was captured by the United States military exactly 36 years ago in Panama on January 3, 1960. What happened in Noriega's case To contemplate what the future holds for Nicholas Maduro, the events from 1989–90, when the United States moved against Panama’s military ruler, Manuel Noriega, provide insights. In December 1989, then US President George H.W. Bush launched "Operation Just Cause", deploying nearly 20,000 American troops to Panama to remove Noriega from power on charges related to drug trafficking and corruption similar to what Maduro faces. Although Maduro's capture was swift and took a few hours for the US military, whereas Noriega evaded immediate capture and sought refuge in the Vatican’s diplomatic mission in Panama City, where he remained holed up for weeks. During the standoff, US troops resorted to psychological pressure, blasting loud rock music, including Welcome to the Jungle by Guns N’ Roses and Paranoid by Black Sabbath, to force him out. Also Read: ‘It was a brilliant operation,’ says Trump after US captures Maduro and his wife Noriega eventually surrendered in January 1990 and was flown to the United States to face trial. Once in US custody, he fought a prolonged legal battle to be recognised as a prisoner of war (POW) rather than a common criminal. US courts ultimately granted him POW status, entitling him to limited privileges, including less restrictive detention conditions. After spending nearly two decades in US prisons, Noriega was extradited to France and later transferred back to Panama, where he died in 2017at the age of 83.

The United States viewed Maduro as an ideological rival and, in 2020, declared him a wanted criminal, placing a bounty on his head over alleged involvement in drug smuggling and corruption.

What future holds for Nicolás Maduro in US custody? Panama’s Noriega trial offers possible roadmap