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Colombia’s President Gustavo Petro on Sunday (Jan 5) rejected the threats made by US President Donald Trump, who accused him of being a drug trafficker. This comes after Trump slammed Petro and suggested that he could be a target in a US operation. Petro also slammed US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who has echoed Trump’s remarks.“The judicial power in Colombia doesn’t belong to me; it’s independent of me, and my opposition largely handles it. If one wants to know about the mafia and the business of cocaine commercialisation, just look at Colombia’s judicial files,” Petro wrote on X.“That’s why I deeply reject Trump speaking without knowing; my name doesn’t appear in the judicial files on drug trafficking over 50 years, neither from before nor from the present,” he added. “Stop slandering me, Mr. Trump. That’s not how you threaten a Latin American president who emerged from the armed struggle and then from the people of Colombia’s fight for Peace.”“Don’t think Latin America is just a nest of criminals poisoning your people—respect us and read our history, which dates back 30,000 years across all of America. I read your history to understand you. Don’t see drug traffickers where there are only genuine warriors for Democracy and Freedom,” he said.In another post, Petro warned the US against bombing, saying, “If you bomb even one of these groups without sufficient intelligence, you will kill many children. If you bomb peasants, thousands of guerrillas will return in the mountains. And if you arrest the president whom a good part of my people want and respect, you will unleash the popular jaguar.”<h2>What did Trump say?</h2>Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump suggested that a US operation could target Colombian President Gustavo Petro. He said, “Colombia’s very sick too. Run by a sick man who likes making cocaine and selling it to the United States.” Referring to Petro, Trump said, “And he’s not going to be doing it very long.”When asked whether that meant a US operation targeting the Colombian leader, Trump replied, “Sounds good to me.”Trump also threatened Mexico, saying that Mexico’s President, Claudia Sheinbaum, was scared. He also claimed that Cuba was “ready to fall”, adding that “a lot of Cubans were killed” during the US operation to seize the Venezuelan leader.American forces on Saturday (Jan 3) seized the Venezuelan leader in what it described as its war against drug cartels and drug lords. In an operation titled Operation Absolute Resolve, the American forces entered Venezuela, bombed Caracas and captured Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, from their presidential palace.

Colombian President Gustavo Petro hit back at Donald Trump’s threats, rejecting accusations of drug trafficking and warning the US against military action. Petro said bombing Colombia or targeting its president would kill civilians and spark unrest, urging respect for Latin America.

Colombia’s President Gustavo Petro on Sunday (Jan 5) rejected the threats made by US President Donald Trump, who accused him of being a drug trafficker. This comes after Trump slammed Petro and suggested that he could be a target in a US operation. Petro also slammed US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who has echoed Trump’s remarks. “The judicial power in Colombia doesn’t belong to me; it’s independent of me, and my opposition largely handles it. If one wants to know about the mafia and the business of cocaine commercialisation, just look at Colombia’s judicial files,” Petro wrote on X. “That’s why I deeply reject Trump speaking without knowing; my name doesn’t appear in the judicial files on drug trafficking over 50 years, neither from before nor from the present,” he added. “Stop slandering me, Mr. Trump. That’s not how you threaten a Latin American president who emerged from the armed struggle and then from the people of Colombia’s fight for Peace.” “Don’t think Latin America is just a nest of criminals poisoning your people—respect us and read our history, which dates back 30,000 years across all of America. I read your history to understand you. Don’t see drug traffickers where there are only genuine warriors for Democracy and Freedom,” he said. In another post, Petro warned the US against bombing, saying, “If you bomb even one of these groups without sufficient intelligence, you will kill many children. If you bomb peasants, thousands of guerrillas will return in the mountains. And if you arrest the president whom a good part of my people want and respect, you will unleash the popular jaguar.” What did Trump say? Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump suggested that a US operation could target Colombian President Gustavo Petro. He said, “Colombia’s very sick too. Run by a sick man who likes making cocaine and selling it to the United States.” Referring to Petro, Trump said, “And he’s not going to be doing it very long.” When asked whether that meant a US operation targeting the Colombian leader, Trump replied, “Sounds good to me.” Trump also threatened Mexico, saying that Mexico’s President, Claudia Sheinbaum, was scared. He also claimed that Cuba was “ready to fall”, adding that “a lot of Cubans were killed” during the US operation to seize the Venezuelan leader. American forces on Saturday (Jan 3) seized the Venezuelan leader in what it described as its war against drug cartels and drug lords. In an operation titled Operation Absolute Resolve, the American forces entered Venezuela, bombed Caracas and captured Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, from their presidential palace.

Colombian President Gustavo Petro hit back at Donald Trump’s threats, rejecting accusations of drug trafficking and warning the US against military action. Petro said bombing Colombia or targeting its president would kill civilians and spark unrest, urging respect for Latin America.

‘Stop slandering me’: Colombian President Petro slams Trump’s threats, warns against bombing his country

Critics are claiming that President Donald Trump hurriedly ordered a military operation in Venezuela to extract its leader Nicolas Maduro to the US in order to tide over scandalous headlines surrounding the Epstein file release. For a president averse to foreign military interventions and who claims to have solved “eight and a quarter” wars, the Venezuela military operation of January 3 was as stunning as it was successful. But the development came amid discontent within Trump’s own support base about how his administration dealt with the release of the Epstein files, exposing connections of the late paedophile- trafficker to many politicians, including Trump. As more allegations tumbled out, some in his MAGA base were slowly turning against him. With midterm elections approaching and control of Congress at stake, Trump definitely needed a change of headlines. If Maduro was the scapegoat for that, it would not be the first time such an action was taken by a beleaguered president. Trump is only acting like some of his predecessors, who intervened abroad when pressured by domestic issues.<h2>Trump Venezuela opration: The timing is odd, or is it clever?</h2>Illinois Governor JB Pritzker had already warned that Trump might escalate to war with Venezuela to shift focus from Epstein-related scrutiny. House Oversight Democrats noted the convenient timing of the strikes, coinciding with Epstein file deadlines. &nbsp;Political commentators like James Carville explicitly accused Trump of using the Venezuela operation as a desperate distraction from the Epstein controversy, economic issues and rising cost of living in the US. Some criticised Trump for violating both the US Constitution and international law for personal gain.&nbsp;Democratic Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez called the operation a distraction from Epstein, not narcotics, which is being cited as the reason for the Maduro extraction.Some Democrats labelled it a regime change effort tied to oil interests.&nbsp;Even some Republicans like Representative Thomas Massie called it unconstitutional.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/maduro-faces-judge-in-ny-charged-with-wife-in-narco-terror-plot-wion-1767592261165/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/maduro-faces-judge-in-ny-charged-with-wife-in-narco-terror-plot-wion-1767592261165/embed</a><h2>Social media awash with claims on Trump Venezuela attack - Epstein file coincidence</h2>In online debates, a prominent view was that the Venezuela strikes are a deliberate diversion from the Epstein files, with X user saying that invading Venezuela would make people forget the Epstein files. Interestingly, the keywords 'Epstein files' went down in online search trends almost overnight when the Venezuela strikes took place. Online commentary ranged from 'it’s all about Epstein' to speculation that Venezuela’s oil was the secondary motive for the attack.But some Trump supporters are dismissing the criticism as 'liberal spin'.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/maduro-captured-a-new-polymarket-account-made-436-759-overnight-on-operation-absolute-resolve-1767586669789">Maduro captured: A new Polymarket account made $436,759 overnight on Operation Absolute Resolve. A wild guess?</a><h2>Trump's role in Epstein files</h2>Trump has been mentioned in the Epstein files several times, mainly as having been part of the late financier’s social circle. No new criminal charges have stemmed from the files, but Trump’s Department of Justice faces deadlines to explain redactions and release more details. These demands came just around the time of the Venezuela attack.But Trump had for long expressed interest in intervening in Venezuela, starting from his first term in office. He had often discussed seizing its oil reserves which are among the world’s largest. Even as Epstein file pressure was building up, Trump escalated rhetoric against Venezuela including threats over disputed oil fields and invoking the Alien Enemies Act for deportations of Venezuelans in the United States. This was seen as laying groundwork for the eventual military action that followed.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/live-blog-us-venezuela-conflict-live-updates-maduro-jailed-trump-us-strikes-in-caracas-1767584039309">US-Venezuela conflict LIVE updates: Iran calls for release of Venezuela's Maduro</a><h2>How past presidents acted abroad when faced with domestic crises</h2>This is not the first time that, when faced with domestic issues, scandals and a slowing economy, American presidents chose to change the headlines by making military interventions abroad.In 1998, Democratic President Bill Clinton was mired in the Monica Lewinsky scandal and impeachment proceedings over his affair with the intern. Out of the blue, Clinton authorised missile strikes on alleged al-Qaeda targets in Sudan and Afghanistan. This happened after US embassy bombings in Africa. But even then, the timing was suspect. Republicans called it a 'wag the dog' tactic to distract from domestic scandals. Clinton insisted that the air strikes were a necessary response to terrorism.In the early 2000s, Republican President George W Bush was facing a number of issues including criticism for not predicting and properly tackling the 9/11 terror attack of 2001. As he was fighting for another term, the Bush administration made a buildup against Iraq, saying it was acquiring weapons of mass destruction. This was used as an alibi to invade Iraq, only to discover that there were no such weapons.In 1986, Republican President Ronald Reagan bombed Libya. While this was ostensibly in response to a terror bombing of a Berlin cafe that killed American servicemen, it took place as Reagan’s presidency faced criticism over the Iran-Contra affair, approach to terrorism, &nbsp;concerns over economy and the then-unfolding HIV/AIDS crisis.&nbsp;

After Trump’s January 3 Venezuela operation to capture Nicolás Maduro, his critics allege that it was a  tactic to deflect from the Epstein file releases row. If that's the case, it's not something new: US presidents have a history of using foreign actions to shift domestic attention.

Critics are claiming that President Donald Trump hurriedly ordered a military operation in Venezuela to extract its leader Nicolas Maduro to the US in order to tide over scandalous headlines surrounding the Epstein file release. For a president averse to foreign military interventions and who claims to have solved “eight and a quarter” wars, the Venezuela military operation of January 3 was as stunning as it was successful. But the development came amid discontent within Trump’s own support base about how his administration dealt with the release of the Epstein files, exposing connections of the late paedophile- trafficker to many politicians, including Trump. As more allegations tumbled out, some in his MAGA base were slowly turning against him. With midterm elections approaching and control of Congress at stake, Trump definitely needed a change of headlines. If Maduro was the scapegoat for that, it would not be the first time such an action was taken by a beleaguered president. Trump is only acting like some of his predecessors, who intervened abroad when pressured by domestic issues. Trump Venezuela opration: The timing is odd, or is it clever? Illinois Governor JB Pritzker had already warned that Trump might escalate to war with Venezuela to shift focus from Epstein-related scrutiny. House Oversight Democrats noted the convenient timing of the strikes, coinciding with Epstein file deadlines. Political commentators like James Carville explicitly accused Trump of using the Venezuela operation as a desperate distraction from the Epstein controversy, economic issues and rising cost of living in the US. Some criticised Trump for violating both the US Constitution and international law for personal gain. Democratic Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez called the operation a distraction from Epstein, not narcotics, which is being cited as the reason for the Maduro extraction. Some Democrats labelled it a regime change effort tied to oil interests. Even some Republicans like Representative Thomas Massie called it unconstitutional. https://www.wionews.com/videos/maduro-faces-judge-in-ny-charged-with-wife-in-narco-terror-plot-wion-1767592261165/embed Social media awash with claims on Trump Venezuela attack - Epstein file coincidence In online debates, a prominent view was that the Venezuela strikes are a deliberate diversion from the Epstein files, with X user saying that invading Venezuela would make people forget the Epstein files. Interestingly, the keywords 'Epstein files' went down in online search trends almost overnight when the Venezuela strikes took place. Online commentary ranged from 'it’s all about Epstein' to speculation that Venezuela’s oil was the secondary motive for the attack. But some Trump supporters are dismissing the criticism as 'liberal spin'. Also read: Maduro captured: A new Polymarket account made $436,759 overnight on Operation Absolute Resolve. A wild guess? Trump's role in Epstein files Trump has been mentioned in the Epstein files several times, mainly as having been part of the late financier’s social circle. No new criminal charges have stemmed from the files, but Trump’s Department of Justice faces deadlines to explain redactions and release more details. These demands came just around the time of the Venezuela attack. But Trump had for long expressed interest in intervening in Venezuela, starting from his first term in office. He had often discussed seizing its oil reserves which are among the world’s largest. Even as Epstein file pressure was building up, Trump escalated rhetoric against Venezuela including threats over disputed oil fields and invoking the Alien Enemies Act for deportations of Venezuelans in the United States. This was seen as laying groundwork for the eventual military action that followed. Also read: US-Venezuela conflict LIVE updates: Iran calls for release of Venezuela's Maduro How past presidents acted abroad when faced with domestic crises This is not the first time that, when faced with domestic issues, scandals and a slowing economy, American presidents chose to change the headlines by making military interventions abroad. In 1998, Democratic President Bill Clinton was mired in the Monica Lewinsky scandal and impeachment proceedings over his affair with the intern. Out of the blue, Clinton authorised missile strikes on alleged al-Qaeda targets in Sudan and Afghanistan. This happened after US embassy bombings in Africa. But even then, the timing was suspect. Republicans called it a 'wag the dog' tactic to distract from domestic scandals. Clinton insisted that the air strikes were a necessary response to terrorism. In the early 2000s, Republican President George W Bush was facing a number of issues including criticism for not predicting and properly tackling the 9/11 terror attack of 2001. As he was fighting for another term, the Bush administration made a buildup against Iraq, saying it was acquiring weapons of mass destruction. This was used as an alibi to invade Iraq, only to discover that there were no such weapons. In 1986, Republican President Ronald Reagan bombed Libya. While this was ostensibly in response to a terror bombing of a Berlin cafe that killed American servicemen, it took place as Reagan’s presidency faced criticism over the Iran-Contra affair, approach to terrorism, concerns over economy and the then-unfolding HIV/AIDS crisis.

After Trump’s January 3 Venezuela operation to capture Nicolás Maduro, his critics allege that it was a &nbsp;tactic to deflect from the Epstein file releases row. If that's the case, it's not something new: US presidents have a history of using foreign actions to shift domestic attention.

Change the headline: Did Trump extract Maduro to divert attention from Epstein files fallout? Clinton, Bush, Reagan took similar actions

In the aftermath of Nicolas Maduro capture, the Venezuela government has called for collaboration and peace. In a social media post, Delcy Rodriguez, Acting President of Venezuela said his country "aspires to live without external threats, in an environment of respect and international cooperation."&nbsp;Taking to Instagram Rodriguez wrote, "Venezuela reaffirms its commitment to peace and peaceful coexistence. Our country aspires to live without external threats, in an environment of respect and international cooperation. We believe that global peace is built by first guaranteeing peace within each nation."&nbsp;"We prioritise moving towards balanced and respectful international relations between the United States and Venezuela, and between Venezuela and other countries in the region, premised on sovereign equality and non-interference. These principles guide our diplomacy with the rest of the world," read the Instagram post further.&nbsp;Rodriguez urged the Unites States to "collaborate on an agenda of cooperation oriented towards shared development within the framework of international law to strengthen lasting community coexistence."<h2>US attack on Venezuela approved four days ago?</h2>Meanwhile, it has come to light that the attack on Venezuela and the capture of Maduro was to take place 4 days before the actual attack date.&nbsp;President Donald Trump and the US state machinery, in fact US spies had been monitoring Maduro's every move for months. A small team, including one source within the Venezuelan government kept a track of the 63-year-old's each move like when he slept, what he wore and what he ate. Also his pets were tracked by the intelligence staff.&nbsp;US troops also created a full-size replica of Maduro's Caracas safe house to practise their entry routes. And after keeping a track for months, the mission called "Operation Absolute Resolve" was finalised in early December last year.&nbsp;The mission was closely guarded and not even the Congress was informed or consulted about it. The US military was only waiting for the right time.&nbsp;In fact four days earlier President Trump had given his nod for the attack but the US military chose to wait for better weather and less cloud cover.<h2>The mission "Operation Absolute Resolve"</h2>The attack was a two-hour and twenty-minute mission by air, land and sea. It was unprecedented if compared to the scale and precision it was carried out with.&nbsp;Trump, watched the complex capture in Caracas play out in real time from a room in Mar-a-Lago alongside military generals.&nbsp;“If you would have seen what happened, I mean, I watched it literally, like I was watching a television show,” he said to Fox news

Taking to Instagram Rodriguez wrote, Venezuela reaffirms its commitment to peace and peaceful coexistence. Our country aspires to live without external threats, in an environment of respect and international cooperation.

In the aftermath of Nicolas Maduro capture, the Venezuela government has called for collaboration and peace. In a social media post, Delcy Rodriguez, Acting President of Venezuela said his country "aspires to live without external threats, in an environment of respect and international cooperation." Taking to Instagram Rodriguez wrote, "Venezuela reaffirms its commitment to peace and peaceful coexistence. Our country aspires to live without external threats, in an environment of respect and international cooperation. We believe that global peace is built by first guaranteeing peace within each nation." "We prioritise moving towards balanced and respectful international relations between the United States and Venezuela, and between Venezuela and other countries in the region, premised on sovereign equality and non-interference. These principles guide our diplomacy with the rest of the world," read the Instagram post further. Rodriguez urged the Unites States to "collaborate on an agenda of cooperation oriented towards shared development within the framework of international law to strengthen lasting community coexistence." US attack on Venezuela approved four days ago? Meanwhile, it has come to light that the attack on Venezuela and the capture of Maduro was to take place 4 days before the actual attack date. President Donald Trump and the US state machinery, in fact US spies had been monitoring Maduro's every move for months. A small team, including one source within the Venezuelan government kept a track of the 63-year-old's each move like when he slept, what he wore and what he ate. Also his pets were tracked by the intelligence staff. US troops also created a full-size replica of Maduro's Caracas safe house to practise their entry routes. And after keeping a track for months, the mission called "Operation Absolute Resolve" was finalised in early December last year. The mission was closely guarded and not even the Congress was informed or consulted about it. The US military was only waiting for the right time. In fact four days earlier President Trump had given his nod for the attack but the US military chose to wait for better weather and less cloud cover. The mission "Operation Absolute Resolve" The attack was a two-hour and twenty-minute mission by air, land and sea. It was unprecedented if compared to the scale and precision it was carried out with. Trump, watched the complex capture in Caracas play out in real time from a room in Mar-a-Lago alongside military generals. “If you would have seen what happened, I mean, I watched it literally, like I was watching a television show,” he said to Fox news

Taking to Instagram Rodriguez wrote, "Venezuela reaffirms its commitment to peace and peaceful coexistence. Our country aspires to live without external threats, in an environment of respect and international cooperation.

Venezuela acting president urges US for a 'balanced and respectful international relations'

On Sunday (Jan 4), Nepal’s ousted Prime Minister KP Oli formally responded to a letter sent by the commission probing the protests that turned into an uprising in the Himalayan country. The panel is now seeking clarification on the ‘excessive’ use of force during the movement&nbsp;monikered as the Gen Z protest. Oli has been given a week to respond to the letter, which was delivered to his residence.

<h2>Here’s what happened:</h2>&nbsp;On September 4, Nepal announced a ban on 26 social media platforms as they failed to register and officially comply with the norms laid by the government. This move came after repeated efforts urging the companies to register with the country. The administration said this was to ensure the platform was used responsibly and was looking for more accountability. In hindsight, it was viewed as censorship to block free speech in the Himalayan country.<h2>The government's claim</h2>The Nepalese government claimed that social media users were registering with fake identities to spread hate in the country, also mentioning cybercrime as a factor. It was further said that harmony was being disturbed by using social media as a tool.<h2>The youth’s take</h2>The youth of the country was not convinced by the government’s reason behind the social media ban. It began as a protest against the ban on these platforms, which the youth said was a way to censor voices in the country. Social media may have been a trigger, but the unrest currently ongoing in Nepal is about corruption and economic disparity.GenZ protest in Nepal &nbsp;On September 9, the youth of Nepal was enraged as they took to the streets, sloganeering against the current administration. Government property, offices and residences of ministers and former ministers were vandalised. The agitated demonstrators set everything in their sight ablaze. From the parliament buildings to 5-star hotels, nothing was spared.

Ousted Nepal PM KP Oli has been given a week to respond to the letter, which was delivered to his residence.

On Sunday (Jan 4), Nepal’s ousted Prime Minister KP Oli formally responded to a letter sent by the commission probing the protests that turned into an uprising in the Himalayan country. The panel is now seeking clarification on the ‘excessive’ use of force during the movement monikered as the Gen Z protest. Oli has been given a week to respond to the letter, which was delivered to his residence.

Ousted Nepal PM KP Oli has been given a week to respond to the letter, which was delivered to his residence.

Clarification on 'excessive' force: Panel probing Nepal Gen Z protest seeks response from KP Oli

Iran on Monday (Jan 5) called for the release of Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro, who was captured in a US military operation under US President Donald Trump. Calling it an “illegal act”, the Islamic Republic’s Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baqaei said that “abducting” the president of a country and his wife was “nothing to be proud of”. He added that Iran’s relations with its close ally have not changed despite the ousting of Maduro, who was taken to New York to face trial.“The president of a country and his wife were abducted. It’s nothing to be proud of; it’s an illegal act,” Baqaei said at a weekly press conference. “As the Venezuelan people have emphasised, their president must be released.”He further added, “Our relations with all countries, including Venezuela, are based on mutual respect and will remain so.” He added that they are in contact with the Venezuelan authorities.Meanwhile, reports emerged that Iran’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has a back-up plan to flee the country after Trump’s threats amid violent protests in the country. The Times reported that Khamenei plans to escape Tehran with a close circle of up to 20 aides and family, fleeing to Moscow, similar to Syria’s Bashar al-Assad.On Sunday (Jan 4), Trump warned that Iran would get “hit very hard” by the United States if more protesters die during the unrest in the country that has entered its second week.“We’re watching it very closely. If they start killing people like they have in the past, I think they’re going to get hit very hard by the United States,” Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One.The clashes between protesters and security forces mark an escalation in the unrest, which has spread across Iran after shopkeepers began protests last Sunday over inflation and the depreciating currency. The protests have now spread to at least 25 Iranian cities, including those in rural provinces.At least 12 people, including security forces members, have been killed amid the violence in Iran, according to the official reports.

Iran called the US capture of Venezuela’s Nicolas Maduro an “illegal act,” urging his release. Spokesman Esmail Baqaei said abducting a president and his wife is shameful, adding Iran’s relations with Venezuela remain unchanged.

Iran on Monday (Jan 5) called for the release of Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro, who was captured in a US military operation under US President Donald Trump. Calling it an “illegal act”, the Islamic Republic’s Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baqaei said that “abducting” the president of a country and his wife was “nothing to be proud of”. He added that Iran’s relations with its close ally have not changed despite the ousting of Maduro, who was taken to New York to face trial. “The president of a country and his wife were abducted. It’s nothing to be proud of; it’s an illegal act,” Baqaei said at a weekly press conference. “As the Venezuelan people have emphasised, their president must be released.” He further added, “Our relations with all countries, including Venezuela, are based on mutual respect and will remain so.” He added that they are in contact with the Venezuelan authorities. Meanwhile, reports emerged that Iran’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has a back-up plan to flee the country after Trump’s threats amid violent protests in the country. The Times reported that Khamenei plans to escape Tehran with a close circle of up to 20 aides and family, fleeing to Moscow, similar to Syria’s Bashar al-Assad. On Sunday (Jan 4), Trump warned that Iran would get “hit very hard” by the United States if more protesters die during the unrest in the country that has entered its second week. “We’re watching it very closely. If they start killing people like they have in the past, I think they’re going to get hit very hard by the United States,” Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One. The clashes between protesters and security forces mark an escalation in the unrest, which has spread across Iran after shopkeepers began protests last Sunday over inflation and the depreciating currency. The protests have now spread to at least 25 Iranian cities, including those in rural provinces. At least 12 people, including security forces members, have been killed amid the violence in Iran, according to the official reports.

Iran called the US capture of Venezuela’s Nicolas Maduro an “illegal act,” urging his release. Spokesman Esmail Baqaei said abducting a president and his wife is shameful, adding Iran’s relations with Venezuela remain unchanged.

‘Illegal act’: Iran slams capture of Maduro, vows ties with Venezuela remain unchanged

US Vice President JD Vance has defended the Trump administration following the military operation of the US in Venezuela, capturing President Nicolas Maduro, amid criticism that Washington had targeted the wrong source of illicit drug trafficking.&nbsp;Although the administration has accused the Maduro government of enabling drug flows into the United States, critics pointed to data showing that fentanyl, primarily trafficked from Mexico, accounts for the majority of drug-related deaths in the US, rather than cocaine originating from Venezuela.&nbsp;While clarifying following the criticism over Trump’s actions, JD Vance rejected the argument that Venezuela had nothing to do with drug trafficking simply because most fentanyl came from elsewhere. “First off, fentanyl isn’t the only drug in the world, and there is still fentanyl coming from Venezuela (or at least there was)," he said in a post on X.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">You see a lot claims that Venezuela has nothing to do with drugs because most of the fentanyl comes from elsewhere. I want to address this: First off, fentanyl isn&#39;t the only drug in the world and there is still fentanyl coming from Venezuela (or at least there was). Second,…&mdash; JD Vance (@JDVance) <a href="https://twitter.com/JDVance/status/2007840714575536279?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 4, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h3>Caracas had expropriated US oil property: Vance</h3>“Cocaine, which is the main drug trafficked out of Venezuela, is a profit centre for all of the Latin American cartels. If you cut out the money from cocaine (or even reduce it), you substantially weaken the cartels overall. Also, cocaine is bad too!" he added.&nbsp;He assured that the illegal trafficking of fentanyl from Mexico remains a main focus of the US policy towards the neighbouring country. Responding to allegations that the operation of America was to secure Venezuelan oil, Vance clarified that Caracas had expropriated US oil property around 2 decades ago and had later used that property to finance what he described as narco-terrorist activities.&nbsp;“I understand the anxiety over the use of military force, but are we just supposed to allow a communist to steal our stuff in our hemisphere and do nothing? Great powers don’t act like that. The United States, thanks to President Trump’s leadership, is a great power again. Everyone should take note," he added.

While clarifying after the criticism over Trump’s actions, JD Vance rejected the argument that Venezuela had nothing to do with drug trafficking, simply because most fentanyl came from elsewhere.

US Vice President JD Vance has defended the Trump administration following the military operation of the US in Venezuela, capturing President Nicolas Maduro, amid criticism that Washington had targeted the wrong source of illicit drug trafficking. Although the administration has accused the Maduro government of enabling drug flows into the United States, critics pointed to data showing that fentanyl, primarily trafficked from Mexico, accounts for the majority of drug-related deaths in the US, rather than cocaine originating from Venezuela. While clarifying following the criticism over Trump’s actions, JD Vance rejected the argument that Venezuela had nothing to do with drug trafficking simply because most fentanyl came from elsewhere. “First off, fentanyl isn’t the only drug in the world, and there is still fentanyl coming from Venezuela (or at least there was)," he said in a post on X.

While clarifying after the criticism over Trump’s actions, JD Vance rejected the argument that Venezuela had nothing to do with drug trafficking, simply because most fentanyl came from elsewhere.

'Venezuela is profit center for Latin American cartels': JD Vance defends US operation after Maduro’s capture

United States President Donald Trump on Sunday (Jan 4) insisted that his country is "in charge" of Venezuela after the capturing of former President Nicolas Maduro. This comes after Trump declared that the US will run the country and fix the badly broken oil infrastructure and “start making money for the country.” &nbsp;However, it comes in contrast with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio who said that Washington does not plan to take on a day-to-day governing role in Venezuela. Meanwhile, Venezuela has already Delcy Rodríguez is the acting President of the country and formed a commission to seek the return of Maduro. So, who exactly is “running” Venezuela?<h2>What Trump said?&nbsp;</h2>Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump said, "We're dealing with the people who just got sworn in. Don't ask me who’s in charge because I'll give you an answer and it'll be very controversial. Pressed on what he meant, Trump said: "It means we're in charge." On Dec 3, after the capture of Maduro, Trump had said, "Washington will run Venezuela until such time as we can do a safe, proper and judicious transition.” He also said that “very large United States oil companies” would move into Venezuela to “fix the badly broken… oil infrastructure and start making money for the country.”&nbsp;<h2>What Rubio said?</h2>Speaking to various news channels after US strike on Venezuela, Rubio said that Washington will continue the oil quarantine on Venezuela. "We continue with that quarantine, and we expect to see that there will be changes, not just in the way the oil industry is run for the benefit of the people, but also so that they stop the drug trafficking." Rubio clarified that Trump's intent had been misunderstood, stating, “The whole foreign policy apparatus thinks everything is Libya, everything is Iraq, everything is Afghanistan. This is not the Middle East. And our mission here is very different. This is the Western Hemisphere.” He also said that it is not a war against Venezuela, but a war against drug trafficking organisations.<h2>What acting Venezuelan President Delcy Rodríguez said?</h2>Venezuelan President Delcy Rodríguez urged for 'dialogue and not war'.' She also said that she wishes for "balanced and respectful" relationship with the United States. "We consider it a priority to move toward a balanced and respectful relationship between the US and Venezuela," Rodriguez said. She added that Venezuela is committed to peace and peaceful coexistence and invited the US government to work together within the framework of international law.&nbsp;&nbsp;Rodríguez further said, “President Donald Trump, our peoples and our region deserve peace and dialogue, not war. This has always been President Nicolás Maduro’s message, and it is the message of all of Venezuela right now. This is the Venezuela I believe in and have dedicated my life to. I dream of a Venezuela where all good Venezuelans can come together.”“Venezuela has the right to peace, development, sovereignty and a future,” she concluded.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

After Nicolas Maduro’s capture, Donald Trump claimed the US is “in charge” of Venezuela and will fix its oil sector. However, his secretary of state Marco Rubio said that US won't govern Venezuela 

United States President Donald Trump on Sunday (Jan 4) insisted that his country is "in charge" of Venezuela after the capturing of former President Nicolas Maduro. This comes after Trump declared that the US will run the country and fix the badly broken oil infrastructure and “start making money for the country.” However, it comes in contrast with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio who said that Washington does not plan to take on a day-to-day governing role in Venezuela. Meanwhile, Venezuela has already Delcy Rodríguez is the acting President of the country and formed a commission to seek the return of Maduro. So, who exactly is “running” Venezuela? What Trump said? Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump said, "We're dealing with the people who just got sworn in. Don't ask me who’s in charge because I'll give you an answer and it'll be very controversial. Pressed on what he meant, Trump said: "It means we're in charge." On Dec 3, after the capture of Maduro, Trump had said, "Washington will run Venezuela until such time as we can do a safe, proper and judicious transition.” He also said that “very large United States oil companies” would move into Venezuela to “fix the badly broken… oil infrastructure and start making money for the country.” What Rubio said? Speaking to various news channels after US strike on Venezuela, Rubio said that Washington will continue the oil quarantine on Venezuela. "We continue with that quarantine, and we expect to see that there will be changes, not just in the way the oil industry is run for the benefit of the people, but also so that they stop the drug trafficking." Rubio clarified that Trump's intent had been misunderstood, stating, “The whole foreign policy apparatus thinks everything is Libya, everything is Iraq, everything is Afghanistan. This is not the Middle East. And our mission here is very different. This is the Western Hemisphere.” He also said that it is not a war against Venezuela, but a war against drug trafficking organisations. What acting Venezuelan President Delcy Rodríguez said? Venezuelan President Delcy Rodríguez urged for 'dialogue and not war'.' She also said that she wishes for "balanced and respectful" relationship with the United States. "We consider it a priority to move toward a balanced and respectful relationship between the US and Venezuela," Rodriguez said. She added that Venezuela is committed to peace and peaceful coexistence and invited the US government to work together within the framework of international law. Rodríguez further said, “President Donald Trump, our peoples and our region deserve peace and dialogue, not war. This has always been President Nicolás Maduro’s message, and it is the message of all of Venezuela right now. This is the Venezuela I believe in and have dedicated my life to. I dream of a Venezuela where all good Venezuelans can come together.” “Venezuela has the right to peace, development, sovereignty and a future,” she concluded.

After Nicolas Maduro’s capture, Donald Trump claimed the US is “in charge” of Venezuela and will fix its oil sector. However, his secretary of state Marco Rubio said that US won't govern Venezuela&nbsp;

Trump says 'US in charge' but Rubio insists 'America will only enforce oil quarantine’ - Who actually is running Venezuela

Tesla CEO Elon Musk met US President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump for dinner on Saturday. The meeting came hours after appreciating the US president for a military operation in Venezuela, resulting in the capture of President Nicolás Maduro. Sharing a picture from the dinner, Elon Musk said in a post on X, “Had a lovely dinner last night with @POTUS and @FLOTUS. 2026 is going to be amazing!”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Had a lovely dinner last night with <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/FLOTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FLOTUS</a>. 2026 is going to be amazing! <a href="https://t.co/1Oq35b1PEC">pic.twitter.com/1Oq35b1PEC</a>&mdash; Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/2007910921914769832?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 4, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Earlier on Saturday, Elon Musk reshared an image posted by the White House that showed Maduro blindfolded on board the USS Iwo Jima. "Congratulations, President Trump! This is a win for the world and a clear message to evil dictators everywhere," Musk commented on the image.&nbsp;In the early hours of Saturday, US forces carried out launched an operation in Caracas, targeting a military installation and detaining Maduro along with his wife, Cilia Flores. Both of them were taken to New York to face federal narcotics-related charges, where Maduro is currently being held at a detention facility and is scheduled to appear in court on Monday.&nbsp;While addressing a press conference, President Trump said the United States would temporarily “run” Venezuela until what he described as a "safe, proper and judicious transition" is achieved.&nbsp;Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth later elaborated on the statement, saying the move meant Washington would dictate the terms. "It means we set the terms. President Trump sets the terms. It means the drugs stop flowing, it means the oil that was taken from us is returned, ultimately, and that criminals are not sent to the United States," the Defence Secretary said.<h3>Tensions grew between Trump &amp; Musk</h3>After Trump won the Presidential election, Musk became a close ally in January 2025, advising on the government efficiency effort and setting up DOGE, a task force that focused on curbing federal expenditure and streamlining operations. He emerged as one of the Republican Party’s largest financial backers, donating hundreds of millions of dollars during the 2024 election cycle, according to Reuters.&nbsp;Relations later became strained after Musk openly opposed spending measures supported by Trump, especially the “One Big Beautiful Bill,” arguing that it would significantly increase federal expenditure.

Dinner between Musk and Trump came hours after appreciating the US president for a military operation in Venezuela, resulting in the capture of President Nicolás Maduro. Previously, Elon Musk reshared an image posted by the White House showing Maduro blindfolded on board the USS Iwo Jima.

Tesla CEO Elon Musk met US President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump for dinner on Saturday. The meeting came hours after appreciating the US president for a military operation in Venezuela, resulting in the capture of President Nicolás Maduro. Sharing a picture from the dinner, Elon Musk said in a post on X, “Had a lovely dinner last night with @POTUS and @FLOTUS. 2026 is going to be amazing!”

Dinner between Musk and Trump came hours after appreciating the US president for a military operation in Venezuela, resulting in the capture of President Nicolás Maduro. Previously, Elon Musk reshared an image posted by the White House showing Maduro blindfolded on board the USS Iwo Jima.

Trump-Musk patch-up during 'lovely dinner' with Melania? Here's what we know

As tensions simmer following the United States’ attack on Venezuela on January 3, which saw the "capture" of President Nicolás Maduro, India has reacted with "deep concern". Issuing a travel advisory for its nationals, India called on "all concerned to address issues peacefully through dialogue, ensuring peace and stability of the region."&nbsp; But what has been India stance on wars since 1947, when the country gained independence as it navigates the ever-evolving terrain of geopolitics.&nbsp;<h2>1950s</h2>&nbsp;When the Korean war began in 1950, India condemned North Korea’s invasion, deploying a medical team that treated 200,000 wounded. Its role in resoving the Korean war was notable. During the 1956 Suez Crisis, India backed Egypt against Israel, the UK, and France, advocating for foreign troop withdrawal. That same year, it called for Soviet forces to leave Hungary, supplementing the plea with humanitarian aid but avoided any direct condemnation of Moscow initially.&nbsp;<h2>1960-1970s</h2>&nbsp;The 1967 Six-Day War and 1973 Yom Kippur War saw India staunchly support Arab states, reflecting its NAM solidarity and anti-colonial stance. India’s criticism extended to the US during the Vietnam War (1955-1975), recognizing a unified Vietnam in 1975, and the 1979 Chinese invasion of Vietnam, prompting then-Foreign Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee to cut short a Beijing visit.&nbsp;&nbsp;However, its response to the 1979 Soviet invasion of Afghanistan was more measured, abstaining at the UN. Any direct condemnation of Moscow was avoided, coming at a time when US-Pakistan were increasingly aligned. But then Soviet union had played a key role in supporting India during the 1971 Bangladesh war.&nbsp; India supported Vietnam’s occupation of Cambodia (1979-1989) for ending the Khmer Rouge’s genocide, diverging from Western, Chinese condemnation.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>1980s-1990s</h2>&nbsp;The 1980-1988 Iraq-Iran War saw India urge a ceasefire without condemning either side, while the 1982 Falklands War prompted a call for peaceful negotiations between Argentina and the UK. India strongly criticized Israel’s 1982 Lebanon invasion and the US interventions in Grenada (1983) and Panama (1989), aligning with NAM principles. During the 1991 Gulf War, India called for Iraq’s withdrawal from Kuwait, focusing on evacuating its nationals.&nbsp;<h2>2000s</h2>&nbsp;Post-2000, India adapted to new dynamics. It supported the US after 9/11 during the Afghanistan invasion (2001) but refused troops for the 2003 Iraq invasion, emphasizing the country's sovereignty &amp; UN mandates.&nbsp; The 2008 Russia-Georgia conflict and 2014-2022 Russia-Ukraine War saw India avoid criticizing Moscow. In fact after 2022, full outbreak of hostilities between Russia, and Ukraine, India emphasized on "dialogue and diplomacy" while mostly abstaining on any UN resolutions on the issue. India of course increased its input of cheap Russian energy that later attracted tariffs under Trump during his 2nd term.&nbsp;&nbsp;During the 2020-2023 Nagorno-Karabakh War between Azerbaijan and Armenia, India urged troop withdrawal without explicit alignment. India's export of defence assets to Armenia, and Azerbaijan's full support to Pakistan made sure Baku-Delhi ties hit a rock bottom.&nbsp;After the Hamas terror attack in 2023 on Israel, India had strongly condemned the act of terrorism, but as the Israeli operations gained pace in Gaza, and the humanitarian crisis increased, India called for respect for humanitarian law. And while the conflict rages, India had backed a 2 state solution as the viable option for peace. &nbsp;

When the Korean war began in 1950, India condemned North Korea’s invasion, deploying a medical team that treated 200,000 wounded. Its role in resoving the Korean war was notable. 

As tensions simmer following the United States’ attack on Venezuela on January 3, which saw the "capture" of President Nicolás Maduro, India has reacted with "deep concern". Issuing a travel advisory for its nationals, India called on "all concerned to address issues peacefully through dialogue, ensuring peace and stability of the region." But what has been India stance on wars since 1947, when the country gained independence as it navigates the ever-evolving terrain of geopolitics. 1950s When the Korean war began in 1950, India condemned North Korea’s invasion, deploying a medical team that treated 200,000 wounded. Its role in resoving the Korean war was notable. During the 1956 Suez Crisis, India backed Egypt against Israel, the UK, and France, advocating for foreign troop withdrawal. That same year, it called for Soviet forces to leave Hungary, supplementing the plea with humanitarian aid but avoided any direct condemnation of Moscow initially. 1960-1970s The 1967 Six-Day War and 1973 Yom Kippur War saw India staunchly support Arab states, reflecting its NAM solidarity and anti-colonial stance. India’s criticism extended to the US during the Vietnam War (1955-1975), recognizing a unified Vietnam in 1975, and the 1979 Chinese invasion of Vietnam, prompting then-Foreign Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee to cut short a Beijing visit. However, its response to the 1979 Soviet invasion of Afghanistan was more measured, abstaining at the UN. Any direct condemnation of Moscow was avoided, coming at a time when US-Pakistan were increasingly aligned. But then Soviet union had played a key role in supporting India during the 1971 Bangladesh war. India supported Vietnam’s occupation of Cambodia (1979-1989) for ending the Khmer Rouge’s genocide, diverging from Western, Chinese condemnation. 1980s-1990s The 1980-1988 Iraq-Iran War saw India urge a ceasefire without condemning either side, while the 1982 Falklands War prompted a call for peaceful negotiations between Argentina and the UK. India strongly criticized Israel’s 1982 Lebanon invasion and the US interventions in Grenada (1983) and Panama (1989), aligning with NAM principles. During the 1991 Gulf War, India called for Iraq’s withdrawal from Kuwait, focusing on evacuating its nationals. 2000s Post-2000, India adapted to new dynamics. It supported the US after 9/11 during the Afghanistan invasion (2001) but refused troops for the 2003 Iraq invasion, emphasizing the country's sovereignty & UN mandates. The 2008 Russia-Georgia conflict and 2014-2022 Russia-Ukraine War saw India avoid criticizing Moscow. In fact after 2022, full outbreak of hostilities between Russia, and Ukraine, India emphasized on "dialogue and diplomacy" while mostly abstaining on any UN resolutions on the issue. India of course increased its input of cheap Russian energy that later attracted tariffs under Trump during his 2nd term. During the 2020-2023 Nagorno-Karabakh War between Azerbaijan and Armenia, India urged troop withdrawal without explicit alignment. India's export of defence assets to Armenia, and Azerbaijan's full support to Pakistan made sure Baku-Delhi ties hit a rock bottom. After the Hamas terror attack in 2023 on Israel, India had strongly condemned the act of terrorism, but as the Israeli operations gained pace in Gaza, and the humanitarian crisis increased, India called for respect for humanitarian law. And while the conflict rages, India had backed a 2 state solution as the viable option for peace.

When the Korean war began in 1950, India condemned North Korea’s invasion, deploying a medical team that treated 200,000 wounded. Its role in resoving the Korean war was notable.&nbsp;

Explainer: India's stance on global conflicts since 1947

India was among the largest buyers of Venezuelan oil before US sanctions sharply curtailed trade. Imports largely halted after 2020 amid American sanctions and military actions, which culminated in the removal of its president Nicholas Maduro, who will now stand trial in the US. Several Indian companies – both state-owned and/or listed &nbsp;– have been in business with Venezuela, particularly in the oil and gas sector. After the extraction of Maduro to the US, President Donald Trump revealed plans to “run” the Latin American country. Any such major change would have both short- and long-term consequences for the Indian companies as well as its energy security. Some of it could be actually positive. Here is a roundup:<h2>India and developments in Venezuala</h2>Indian markets appear to have largely shrugged off, or factored in, developments related to Venezuela. Oil-linked stocks such as Reliance showed strength, reflecting potential upside rather than immediate losses. But in the long term, if the US gives priority to American firms, it might limit Indian companies' gains.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/maduro-faces-judge-in-ny-charged-with-wife-in-narco-terror-plot-wion-1767592261165/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/maduro-faces-judge-in-ny-charged-with-wife-in-narco-terror-plot-wion-1767592261165/embed</a><h2>Indian companies in the oil and gas sector with exposure to Venezuela</h2>ONGC Videsh, an unlisted subsidiary of state-run Oil and Natural Gas Corporation, has stakes in two Venezuelan oil projects: 40 per cent in the San Cristóbal field and 11 per cent in Carabobo-1. The state-owned and listed Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) is a consortium partner in the Carabobo heavy-oil project with equity participation. Oil India, a listed Indian state-run oil company, is a minority partner in a Venezuelan oil joint venture alongside ONGC Videsh and IOC.In the private sector, Reliance Industries has been a major importer of Venezuelan crude in the past, with its refineries optimised for heavy oil processing. Mangalore Refinery and Petrochemicals (MRPL), a listed firm, has historically imported Venezuelan oil, while Nayara Energy, an unlisted company, has imported heavy crude from Venezuela in earlier periods.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/live-blog-us-venezuela-conflict-live-updates-maduro-jailed-trump-us-strikes-in-caracas-1767584039309">US-Venezuela conflict LIVE updates: Venezuela sets commission to bring back Maduro amid Trump's warning to Cuba, Mexico, Columbia, Iran</a><h2>Indian pharma sector firms with exposure to Venezuela</h2>Several pharma companies, mostly listed in the Indian stock market, have business interests in Venezuela. Their stocks could be partially affected by any disruption or revival of trade.Sun Pharma operates a registered subsidiary in Venezuela. Cipla has exported essential medicines to Venezuela, while Glenmark Pharma operates through a locally registered subsidiary. Smaller unlisted firms such as Addii Biotech, JoinHub Pharma, and Salvavidas Pharma have been involved in pharma exports, contributing to millions of dollars in annual pharma trade with Venezuela in recent years. Dr Reddy’s had a subsidiary in the country but divested its operations by 2024, resulting in minimal ongoing exposure.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-bus-driver-to-president-the-story-of-venezuelan-president-nicolas-maduro-1767558410299">From bus driver to President: The story of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro</a><h2>Metals, industrial and engineering sector firms exposed to Venezuela</h2>Public-sector firm Engineers India (EIL) has had an overseas office in Caracas to support its international business. Jindal Steel and Power has had iron-ore exposure in Venezuela through overseas assets, though operations have been inconsistent. Bajaj Auto had a historical presence in the Venezuelan motorcycle market, but recent years have seen limited operations due to the country’s economic conditions.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/-capture-of-nicholas-maduro-is-it-legal-to-kidnap-a-president-of-another-country-like-venezuela-1767437573552">'Capture of Nicholas Maduro': Is it legal to kidnap a 'President' of another country like Venezuela?</a><h2>Macro impact and energy security future of India in wake of Venezuela developments</h2>Indian imports from Venezuela have declined by over 90 per cent since 2019 due to sanctions. This means that while individual firms with exposure might be affected, India’s overall energy security or economy are unlikely to take a major hit from developments involving Venezuela.On the other hand, India could benefit if Venezuela’s oil production and exports increase following sanctions relief or improved Amercian engagement.&nbsp;<h2>Future of Venezuela's oil industry: Will India be affected?</h2>Venezuela has been exporting roughly 700,000–900,000 barrels per day in recent years, largely to China. If the US helps improve oil infrastructure, output could rise over time, which would ease global supply pressures on oil.If US sanctions on the Venezuelan oil industry are lifted, India could also recover a portion of stuck dues and dividends owed to ONGC Videsh. Refiners such as Reliance, Nayara and MRPL could benefit from renewed access to discounted heavy crude, potentially improving margins.If production stabilises, both IOC and Oil India might be able to move forward with their joint ventures.<h2>Indian pharma sector could be affected in long term</h2>Pharma and engineering could be a different story. Sun Pharma, Cipla, Glenmark and smaller exporters might face short-term disruptions. If US–Venezuela ties improve, it could enhance market access for essential medicines over time. But again, if American pharma firms enter Venezuela market, Indian companies could face tough competition.&nbsp;Iron-ore operations could remain vulnerable to political or port-related disruptions, though this exposure is not core to the overall business of Indian firms involved.

Capture and trial of Maduro and subsequent US actions in Venezuela could reshape oil flows, affect Indian energy and pharma firms. it could be beneficial if Indian oil firms get stuck dues and global oil supply eases. But instability could be a problem. What's in store?

India was among the largest buyers of Venezuelan oil before US sanctions sharply curtailed trade. Imports largely halted after 2020 amid American sanctions and military actions, which culminated in the removal of its president Nicholas Maduro, who will now stand trial in the US. Several Indian companies – both state-owned and/or listed – have been in business with Venezuela, particularly in the oil and gas sector. After the extraction of Maduro to the US, President Donald Trump revealed plans to “run” the Latin American country. Any such major change would have both short- and long-term consequences for the Indian companies as well as its energy security. Some of it could be actually positive. Here is a roundup: India and developments in Venezuala Indian markets appear to have largely shrugged off, or factored in, developments related to Venezuela. Oil-linked stocks such as Reliance showed strength, reflecting potential upside rather than immediate losses. But in the long term, if the US gives priority to American firms, it might limit Indian companies' gains. https://www.wionews.com/videos/maduro-faces-judge-in-ny-charged-with-wife-in-narco-terror-plot-wion-1767592261165/embed Indian companies in the oil and gas sector with exposure to Venezuela ONGC Videsh, an unlisted subsidiary of state-run Oil and Natural Gas Corporation, has stakes in two Venezuelan oil projects: 40 per cent in the San Cristóbal field and 11 per cent in Carabobo-1. The state-owned and listed Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) is a consortium partner in the Carabobo heavy-oil project with equity participation. Oil India, a listed Indian state-run oil company, is a minority partner in a Venezuelan oil joint venture alongside ONGC Videsh and IOC. In the private sector, Reliance Industries has been a major importer of Venezuelan crude in the past, with its refineries optimised for heavy oil processing. Mangalore Refinery and Petrochemicals (MRPL), a listed firm, has historically imported Venezuelan oil, while Nayara Energy, an unlisted company, has imported heavy crude from Venezuela in earlier periods. Also read: US-Venezuela conflict LIVE updates: Venezuela sets commission to bring back Maduro amid Trump's warning to Cuba, Mexico, Columbia, Iran Indian pharma sector firms with exposure to Venezuela Several pharma companies, mostly listed in the Indian stock market, have business interests in Venezuela. Their stocks could be partially affected by any disruption or revival of trade. Sun Pharma operates a registered subsidiary in Venezuela. Cipla has exported essential medicines to Venezuela, while Glenmark Pharma operates through a locally registered subsidiary. Smaller unlisted firms such as Addii Biotech, JoinHub Pharma, and Salvavidas Pharma have been involved in pharma exports, contributing to millions of dollars in annual pharma trade with Venezuela in recent years. Dr Reddy’s had a subsidiary in the country but divested its operations by 2024, resulting in minimal ongoing exposure. Also read: From bus driver to President: The story of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro Metals, industrial and engineering sector firms exposed to Venezuela Public-sector firm Engineers India (EIL) has had an overseas office in Caracas to support its international business. Jindal Steel and Power has had iron-ore exposure in Venezuela through overseas assets, though operations have been inconsistent. Bajaj Auto had a historical presence in the Venezuelan motorcycle market, but recent years have seen limited operations due to the country’s economic conditions. Also read: 'Capture of Nicholas Maduro': Is it legal to kidnap a 'President' of another country like Venezuela? Macro impact and energy security future of India in wake of Venezuela developments Indian imports from Venezuela have declined by over 90 per cent since 2019 due to sanctions. This means that while individual firms with exposure might be affected, India’s overall energy security or economy are unlikely to take a major hit from developments involving Venezuela. On the other hand, India could benefit if Venezuela’s oil production and exports increase following sanctions relief or improved Amercian engagement. Future of Venezuela's oil industry: Will India be affected? Venezuela has been exporting roughly 700,000–900,000 barrels per day in recent years, largely to China. If the US helps improve oil infrastructure, output could rise over time, which would ease global supply pressures on oil. If US sanctions on the Venezuelan oil industry are lifted, India could also recover a portion of stuck dues and dividends owed to ONGC Videsh. Refiners such as Reliance, Nayara and MRPL could benefit from renewed access to discounted heavy crude, potentially improving margins. If production stabilises, both IOC and Oil India might be able to move forward with their joint ventures. Indian pharma sector could be affected in long term Pharma and engineering could be a different story. Sun Pharma, Cipla, Glenmark and smaller exporters might face short-term disruptions. If US–Venezuela ties improve, it could enhance market access for essential medicines over time. But again, if American pharma firms enter Venezuela market, Indian companies could face tough competition. Iron-ore operations could remain vulnerable to political or port-related disruptions, though this exposure is not core to the overall business of Indian firms involved.

Capture and trial of Maduro and subsequent US actions in Venezuela could reshape oil flows, affect Indian energy and pharma firms. it could be beneficial if Indian oil firms get stuck dues and global oil supply eases. But instability could be a problem. What's in store?

Some good, some bad: How Indian firms and energy security could be affected by US “running” Venezuela after taking Maduro into custody

&nbsp;After capturing Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and launching strikes in Caracas, US President Donald Trump issued a fresh warning to the South American nation, suggesting a second strike in the country “if they don’t behave”. This comes after American forces on Saturday (Jan 3) seized the Venezuelan leader in what it described as its war against drug cartels and drug lords. In an operation titled Operation Absolute Resolve, the American forces entered Venezuela, bombed Caracas and captured Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, from their presidential palace.“We were prepared to do a second strike,” Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One. When asked whether another military operation was off the table now, Trump replied , “No, it’s not. If they don’t behave, we’ll do a second strike.”Speaking of the US operation in Caracas, Trump said, “Amazing talent and tremendous patriotism, bravery. The bravery was incredible.”While no US casualties in the operation, Trump said, “You know, a lot of Cubans were killed yesterday,” adding that there was “a lot of death on the other side, unfortunately.” Meanwhile, Havana authorities said that 32 Cubans were killed during the US attack on Caracas that resulted in the capture of Maduro. One Colombian was also killed.<h2>Trump’s war against drugs</h2>Trump also warned Mexico, Colombia, and Cuba of a possible US military action. He said that Mexico’s President, Claudia Sheinbaum, was scared and suggested that a US operation could target Colombian President Gustavo Petro. The US president also claimed that Cuba was “ready to fall”, adding that “a lot of Cubans were killed” during the US operation to seize the Venezuelan leader.Trump said, “You have to do something with Mexico. Mexico has to get their act together,” and better combat drug trafficking. He claimed that he had repeatedly offered US troops to Mexico, but Sheinbaum is “concerned, she’s a little afraid”.He added, “Colombia’s very sick too. Run by a sick man who likes making cocaine and selling it to the United States.” Referring to Colombian President Gustavo Petro, Trump said, “And he’s not going to be doing it very long.” When asked whether that meant a US operation targeting the Colombian leader, Trump replied, “Sounds good to me.”“Cuba is ready to fall,” Trump told reporters on Air Force One, adding that it would be hard for Havana to “hold out” without receiving heavily subsidised Venezuelan oil. He added, “I don’t think we need any action. It looks like it’s going down.”

Trump warned of a possible second US strike in Venezuela after American forces captured President Nicolas Maduro in a Caracas operation. He praised US troops, cited heavy casualties, and threatened Mexico, Colombia and Cuba over drugs and regional stability.

After capturing Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and launching strikes in Caracas, US President Donald Trump issued a fresh warning to the South American nation, suggesting a second strike in the country “if they don’t behave”. This comes after American forces on Saturday (Jan 3) seized the Venezuelan leader in what it described as its war against drug cartels and drug lords. In an operation titled Operation Absolute Resolve, the American forces entered Venezuela, bombed Caracas and captured Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, from their presidential palace. “We were prepared to do a second strike,” Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One. When asked whether another military operation was off the table now, Trump replied , “No, it’s not. If they don’t behave, we’ll do a second strike.” Speaking of the US operation in Caracas, Trump said, “Amazing talent and tremendous patriotism, bravery. The bravery was incredible.” While no US casualties in the operation, Trump said, “You know, a lot of Cubans were killed yesterday,” adding that there was “a lot of death on the other side, unfortunately.” Meanwhile, Havana authorities said that 32 Cubans were killed during the US attack on Caracas that resulted in the capture of Maduro. One Colombian was also killed. Trump’s war against drugs Trump also warned Mexico, Colombia, and Cuba of a possible US military action. He said that Mexico’s President, Claudia Sheinbaum, was scared and suggested that a US operation could target Colombian President Gustavo Petro. The US president also claimed that Cuba was “ready to fall”, adding that “a lot of Cubans were killed” during the US operation to seize the Venezuelan leader. Trump said, “You have to do something with Mexico. Mexico has to get their act together,” and better combat drug trafficking. He claimed that he had repeatedly offered US troops to Mexico, but Sheinbaum is “concerned, she’s a little afraid”. He added, “Colombia’s very sick too. Run by a sick man who likes making cocaine and selling it to the United States.” Referring to Colombian President Gustavo Petro, Trump said, “And he’s not going to be doing it very long.” When asked whether that meant a US operation targeting the Colombian leader, Trump replied, “Sounds good to me.” “Cuba is ready to fall,” Trump told reporters on Air Force One, adding that it would be hard for Havana to “hold out” without receiving heavily subsidised Venezuelan oil. He added, “I don’t think we need any action. It looks like it’s going down.”

Trump warned of a possible second US strike in Venezuela after American forces captured President Nicolas Maduro in a Caracas operation. He praised US troops, cited heavy casualties, and threatened Mexico, Colombia and Cuba over drugs and regional stability.

Second strike in Venezuela? Trump’s fresh warning after capturing Maduro: ‘If they don't behave...’

Amid massive protests in Iran against the economic crumble, Iran’s Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has a back-up plan to flee the country, according to a report. This also comes at the backdrop of US President Donald Trump's action against Venezuela's Nicolas Maduro, and a warning to all other countries to fall in line. The report also claimed that Khamenei might flee to Moscow similar to Syria's Bashar al-Assad.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-if-they-start-killing-people-trump-warns-khamenei-of-strike-as-iran-protest-enters-second-week-1767579036623/amp">'If they start killing people...': Trump warns Khamenei of strike as Iran protest enters second week</a>&nbsp;The Times quoted an intelligence report and claimed that Khamenei plans to escape Tehran with a close circle of up to 20 aides and family. The report also quoted Beni Sabti saying that Khamenei would flee to Moscow as “there is no other place for him." Sabti served for decades in Israeli intelligence after fleeing the regime eight years after the Islamic revolution. He claimed that Khamenei “admires Putin, while the Iranian culture is more similar to the Russian culture.”&nbsp;The report surfaces around the same time when Trump has warned Iran that it would get "hit very hard" by the United States if more protesters die. "We're watching it very closely. If they start killing people like they have in the past, I think they're going to get hit very hard by the United States," Trump told reporters. Earlier on Jan 2, he had taken to Truth Social and said, “We are locked and loaded and ready to go. Thank you for your attention to this matter.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-protesters-attempt-to-break-into-government-building-revolutionary-guard-volunteer-killed-1767242849150">Iran protesters attempt to break into government building, Revolutionary Guard volunteer killed</a><h2>US bombs Venezuela, captures and jails Maduro</h2>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.<h2>Iran Protest</h2>Iranians started protesting on December 28 against economic collapse, and are demanding political regime change. The protest was triggered after the Iranian rial hit a record low of approximately 1.45 million to 1 USD in December 2025, losing nearly half its value since the start of the year. Soon after, inflation hit all time high with food prices surging by 72 per cent and medical goods by 50 per cent. The widespread protest also comes after a 2026 budget proposed 62 per cent tax increase. Some videos also show protesters chanting slogans in support of Iranian Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi, who is the exiled eldest son of the last Shah of Iran, Mohammad Reza Shah. At least 12 people, including members of the security forces, have been killed since, according to a toll based on official reports. The demonstrations are the most significant in Iran since a 2022-2023 movement sparked by the death in custody of Mahsa Amini, who had been arrested for allegedly violating Iran's strict dress code for women. &nbsp;

Iran regime change soon amid intensifying protest? Report claim Khamenei to flee Iran after Trump's warning

Amid massive protests in Iran against the economic crumble, Iran’s Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has a back-up plan to flee the country, according to a report. This also comes at the backdrop of US President Donald Trump's action against Venezuela's Nicolas Maduro, and a warning to all other countries to fall in line. The report also claimed that Khamenei might flee to Moscow similar to Syria's Bashar al-Assad. Also Read: 'If they start killing people...': Trump warns Khamenei of strike as Iran protest enters second week The Times quoted an intelligence report and claimed that Khamenei plans to escape Tehran with a close circle of up to 20 aides and family. The report also quoted Beni Sabti saying that Khamenei would flee to Moscow as “there is no other place for him." Sabti served for decades in Israeli intelligence after fleeing the regime eight years after the Islamic revolution. He claimed that Khamenei “admires Putin, while the Iranian culture is more similar to the Russian culture.” The report surfaces around the same time when Trump has warned Iran that it would get "hit very hard" by the United States if more protesters die. "We're watching it very closely. If they start killing people like they have in the past, I think they're going to get hit very hard by the United States," Trump told reporters. Earlier on Jan 2, he had taken to Truth Social and said, “We are locked and loaded and ready to go. Thank you for your attention to this matter.” Also Read: Iran protesters attempt to break into government building, Revolutionary Guard volunteer killed US bombs Venezuela, captures and jails Maduro 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. Iran Protest Iranians started protesting on December 28 against economic collapse, and are demanding political regime change. The protest was triggered after the Iranian rial hit a record low of approximately 1.45 million to 1 USD in December 2025, losing nearly half its value since the start of the year. Soon after, inflation hit all time high with food prices surging by 72 per cent and medical goods by 50 per cent. The widespread protest also comes after a 2026 budget proposed 62 per cent tax increase. Some videos also show protesters chanting slogans in support of Iranian Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi, who is the exiled eldest son of the last Shah of Iran, Mohammad Reza Shah. At least 12 people, including members of the security forces, have been killed since, according to a toll based on official reports. The demonstrations are the most significant in Iran since a 2022-2023 movement sparked by the death in custody of Mahsa Amini, who had been arrested for allegedly violating Iran's strict dress code for women.

Amid mass protests over economic collapse, a report claims Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has a contingency plan to flee to Moscow. The claim comes as Donald Trump warns Iran after US action against Venezuela’s Nicolas Maduro.

Iran regime change soon amid intensifying protest? Report claims Khamenei to flee Iran after Trump's warning

A 47-year-old man from South Korea was reportedly stabbed to death by his Indian live-in partner in Greater Noida on Sunday (January 4, 2025), after which the accused woman was arrested. Police said the matter surfaced after the Knowledge Park police station was alerted by GIMS Hospital that a foreign national had been brought in dead.&nbsp;The deceased was identified as Duck Hee Yuh, a South Korean citizen residing at ATS Pious Hideaways in Sector 150 of Gautam Buddh Nagar District. Preliminary investigations revealed that he was taken to the hospital by Lunjeana Pamai, a woman from Manipur who had been in a long-term live-in relationship with him, the police added.&nbsp;"Preliminary investigation revealed that the woman allegedly stabbed the man with a knife," police said, news agency PTI reported. They further added that following the incident, a case was filed, and the accused woman was arrested. In addition, the body of the deceased has been sent for post-mortem, and a further probe is underway.<h3>Hee’s family in South Korea has been notified</h3>According to a report in the TOI, Duck Hee Yuh was from Cheongju-si in South Korea and Lunjeana Pamai (22) from Bishnupur in Manipur were in a live-in relationship and stayed in a flat in ATS Pious Hideways. Duck Hee Yuh was employed in India with a logistics company in Greater Noida for the past 10 years.&nbsp;According to the primary report, both had met at a party in Gurgaon before entering into the relationship. While Hee was working in Greater Noida, Pamai was unemployed. In response to the reason behind the fight, Sudheer Kumar, ADCP (Greater Noida) stated that Pamai had revealed to cops that Hee had been drinking since Saturday morning, which angered her.&nbsp;After she stabbed him, the police were notified on Sunday morning about the death of Hee from the Government Institute of Medical Sciences (GIMS), where he was admitted. "A team reached the hospital and learnt that the South Korean national was in a live-in relationship with his girlfriend for the past two years," said Sudheer Kumar, ADCP (Greater Noida).&nbsp;"According to her, Pamai tried to stop him from drinking between 3 am and 4 am. She asked him to have dinner and go off to sleep. But Hee became aggressive, which led to a heated argument between the two. It soon escalated into a physical fight, and Hee thrashed Pamai badly. In retaliation, she picked up a knife from the dining table and stabbed Hee a number of times in the chest," the officer said.&nbsp;After Hee fell to the ground after the attack, Pamai called his driver, Mandeep Singh. "She asked him to come to the flat. When Singh arrived early in the morning, Pamai told him everything. Singh called an ambulance and took Hee to the hospital along with Pamai. By the time they reached GIMS, Hee had died. When his girlfriend came to know about Hee's death, she quietly left the hospital without informing anyone," the ADCP said.&nbsp;Police said Hee’s family in South Korea has been notified and is travelling to Noida. Following a complaint filed by Singh, a case was registered against Pamai under Section 103 (murder) of the BNS at the Knowledge Park police station.

The deceased was identified as Duck Hee Yuh, a South Korean citizen residing at ATS Pious Hideaways in Sector 150 of Gautam Buddh Nagar District. Preliminary investigations revealed that he was taken to the hospital by his live-in partner, Lunjeana Pamai, a woman from Manipur.

A 47-year-old man from South Korea was reportedly stabbed to death by his Indian live-in partner in Greater Noida on Sunday (January 4, 2025), after which the accused woman was arrested. Police said the matter surfaced after the Knowledge Park police station was alerted by GIMS Hospital that a foreign national had been brought in dead. The deceased was identified as Duck Hee Yuh, a South Korean citizen residing at ATS Pious Hideaways in Sector 150 of Gautam Buddh Nagar District. Preliminary investigations revealed that he was taken to the hospital by Lunjeana Pamai, a woman from Manipur who had been in a long-term live-in relationship with him, the police added. "Preliminary investigation revealed that the woman allegedly stabbed the man with a knife," police said, news agency PTI reported. They further added that following the incident, a case was filed, and the accused woman was arrested. In addition, the body of the deceased has been sent for post-mortem, and a further probe is underway. Hee’s family in South Korea has been notified According to a report in the TOI, Duck Hee Yuh was from Cheongju-si in South Korea and Lunjeana Pamai (22) from Bishnupur in Manipur were in a live-in relationship and stayed in a flat in ATS Pious Hideways. Duck Hee Yuh was employed in India with a logistics company in Greater Noida for the past 10 years. According to the primary report, both had met at a party in Gurgaon before entering into the relationship. While Hee was working in Greater Noida, Pamai was unemployed. In response to the reason behind the fight, Sudheer Kumar, ADCP (Greater Noida) stated that Pamai had revealed to cops that Hee had been drinking since Saturday morning, which angered her. After she stabbed him, the police were notified on Sunday morning about the death of Hee from the Government Institute of Medical Sciences (GIMS), where he was admitted. "A team reached the hospital and learnt that the South Korean national was in a live-in relationship with his girlfriend for the past two years," said Sudheer Kumar, ADCP (Greater Noida). "According to her, Pamai tried to stop him from drinking between 3 am and 4 am. She asked him to have dinner and go off to sleep. But Hee became aggressive, which led to a heated argument between the two. It soon escalated into a physical fight, and Hee thrashed Pamai badly. In retaliation, she picked up a knife from the dining table and stabbed Hee a number of times in the chest," the officer said. After Hee fell to the ground after the attack, Pamai called his driver, Mandeep Singh. "She asked him to come to the flat. When Singh arrived early in the morning, Pamai told him everything. Singh called an ambulance and took Hee to the hospital along with Pamai. By the time they reached GIMS, Hee had died. When his girlfriend came to know about Hee's death, she quietly left the hospital without informing anyone," the ADCP said. Police said Hee’s family in South Korea has been notified and is travelling to Noida. Following a complaint filed by Singh, a case was registered against Pamai under Section 103 (murder) of the BNS at the Knowledge Park police station.

The deceased was identified as Duck Hee Yuh, a South Korean citizen residing at ATS Pious Hideaways in Sector 150 of Gautam Buddh Nagar District. Preliminary investigations revealed that he was taken to the hospital by his live-in partner, Lunjeana Pamai, a woman from Manipur.

SHOCKING: Manipur woman stabs South Korean boyfriend to death in Greater Noida, arrested — More details inside

Trump warned Mexico, Colombia and Cuba after a US operation in Venezuela that captured Nicolas Maduro. He claimed Mexico’s leader is “scared,” hinted at targeting Colombia’s president, said Cuba is “ready to fall,” and acknowledged dozens killed in Caracas.

Trump to expand his drug war? US president’s ominous warning to Mexico, Colombia, Cuba after capturing Venezuela’s Maduro

China has again reacted sharply to the US action in Venezuela and the capture of its ex-president Nicolas Maduro and his wife. Foreign Minister Wang Yi said without naming US directly said that Beijing cannot accept any country acting as the "world's judge". Yi made the remarks during high-level talks in Beijing with Ishaq Dar, the deputy prime minister and foreign minister of Pakistan on Sunday.&nbsp;Raising concerns he said that the international landscape was becoming increasingly volatile and unilateral decisions are being taken which he called it as a bullying behaviour.&nbsp;“China has never believed that any country can play the role of an international policeman, nor do we agree that any country can claim itself to be an international judge,” he said, according to the Chinese foreign ministry.<h2>China demands immediate release of Maduro</h2>Meanwhile, China on Sunday demanded immediate release of Maduro and his wife. The Chinese Foreign Ministry in its statement said “China expresses grave concern over the US forcibly seizing President Nicolas Maduro and his wife and taking them out of the country”.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-if-they-start-killing-people-trump-warns-khamenei-of-strike-as-iran-protest-enters-second-week-1767579036623">'If they start killing people...': Trump warns Khamenei of strike as Iran protest enters second week</a>&nbsp;"China calls on the U.S. to ensure the personal safety of President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, release them at once, stop toppling the government of Venezuela, and resolve issues through dialogue and negotiation," the statement further read.&nbsp;China called the move by US a clear violation of international law and of the UN Charter."The U.S.’s move is in clear violation of international law, basic norms in international relations, and the purposes and principles of the UN Charter," &nbsp;the statement read.

Raising concerns Chinese Foreign Ministere said that the international landscape was becoming increasingly volatile and unilateral decisions are being taken which he called it as a bullying behaviour.

China has again reacted sharply to the US action in Venezuela and the capture of its ex-president Nicolas Maduro and his wife. Foreign Minister Wang Yi said without naming US directly said that Beijing cannot accept any country acting as the "world's judge". Yi made the remarks during high-level talks in Beijing with Ishaq Dar, the deputy prime minister and foreign minister of Pakistan on Sunday. Raising concerns he said that the international landscape was becoming increasingly volatile and unilateral decisions are being taken which he called it as a bullying behaviour. “China has never believed that any country can play the role of an international policeman, nor do we agree that any country can claim itself to be an international judge,” he said, according to the Chinese foreign ministry. China demands immediate release of Maduro Meanwhile, China on Sunday demanded immediate release of Maduro and his wife. The Chinese Foreign Ministry in its statement said “China expresses grave concern over the US forcibly seizing President Nicolas Maduro and his wife and taking them out of the country”. ALSO READ: 'If they start killing people...': Trump warns Khamenei of strike as Iran protest enters second week "China calls on the U.S. to ensure the personal safety of President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, release them at once, stop toppling the government of Venezuela, and resolve issues through dialogue and negotiation," the statement further read. China called the move by US a clear violation of international law and of the UN Charter. "The U.S.’s move is in clear violation of international law, basic norms in international relations, and the purposes and principles of the UN Charter," the statement read.

Raising concerns Chinese Foreign Ministere said that the international landscape was becoming increasingly volatile and unilateral decisions are being taken which he called it as a bullying behaviour.

No country is an international judge, says China amid Maduro capture by US

At 22:46 EST on Friday (January 2), US President Donald Trump gave "Operation Absolute Resolve" the go-ahead, and Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro was captured within hours. On the same day, a supposedly brand new account on Polymarket got $30,000 into bets on the removal of Maduro, and by Saturday morning, it had made $436,759.61, according to Axios’s Herb Scribner. This looks eerily suspicious, as if someone was tipped off about the operation and used the opportunity to make money on the world's biggest prediction website. But, likely, it was merely a wild guess that made the person rich. There is no clarity over where this number took off from, but an archive.ph screenshot is being widely circulated on social media.<h2>Bets on Maduro being ousted from power spiked on Friday night</h2>Maduro was captured in a two-hour-and-twenty-minute mission by air, land and sea by the US military and taken out of his country, shocking the world. Brazil's President Lula da Silva called it "yet another extremely dangerous precedent for the entire international community". Trump said later that they were "going to do this four days ago, three days ago, two days ago, and then all of a sudden it opened up." Besides, according to the Wall Street Journal, there were six contracts of Maduro-leaves-power bets on Polymarket, and a total of $56.6 million worth of bets were placed. $40 million of it was called that Maduro would leave by November 30 or December 31, both of which proved wrong. On Friday night, there was a sudden spike in bets on Maduro being ousted.Meanwhile, according to bettors, Maduro's chances of being freed aren't very bright this year. There is a mere 1 per cent chance of his release by January 9, and only 15 per cent by the end of 2026.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/trump-s-ominous-warning-before-us-grabbed-venezuela-president-nicolas-maduro-and-his-wife-be-smart-or-else-1767434160610">Trump's 'ominous warning' before US grabbed Venezuela president Nicolas Maduro and his wife: Be 'smart' or else...</a><h2>How Operation Absolute Resolve went down</h2>In order to increase the element of surprise, the military had a false start with Trump ordering the strike four days earlier, but no action was initiated. "Over the weeks through Christmas and New Year, the men and women of the United States military sat ready, patiently waiting for the right triggers to be met and the president to order us into action," General Dan Caine, the US's highest-ranking military officer, told reporters on Saturday morning.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-cuba-is-ready-to-to-fall-trump-warns-says-a-lot-of-cubans-killed-in-us-strikes-against-venezuela-1767578601251">‘Cuba is ready to fall’: Trump’s BIG warning after admitting ‘a lot of Cubans killed’ in US strikes against Venezuela</a>&nbsp;https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-venezuela-tensions-trump-threatens-venezuela-s-new-leader-1767585062647/embed<h2>Trump on Venezuela Maduro operation</h2>Trump called it "an incredible thing to see," and that it was like "watching a television show." His order came when it was almost midnight in Caracas. More than 150 aircraft, including bombers, fighter jets and reconnaissance planes, swarmed the skies. At around 2 am local time, loud explosions were heard, and smoke was seen rising over the city. Maduro, who was under the watch of Cuban bodyguards, tried to make it to a safe room, but failed. "He was trying to get to a safe place, which wasn't safe, because we would have had the door blown up in about 47 seconds," Trump said. Venezuelan Defence Minister Vladimir Padrino said on Sunday that the operation led to the killing of a "large part" of Maduro's security team and "soldiers and innocent civilians". &nbsp;

Polymarket bets on Maduro: An account that looks brand new got $30,000 in bets on the ouster of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, and made $436,759 by Saturday morning. Was it a wild guess? Probably, since there were six contracts on Maduro.

At 22:46 EST on Friday (January 2), US President Donald Trump gave "Operation Absolute Resolve" the go-ahead, and Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro was captured within hours. On the same day, a supposedly brand new account on Polymarket got $30,000 into bets on the removal of Maduro, and by Saturday morning, it had made $436,759.61, according to Axios’s Herb Scribner. This looks eerily suspicious, as if someone was tipped off about the operation and used the opportunity to make money on the world's biggest prediction website. But, likely, it was merely a wild guess that made the person rich. There is no clarity over where this number took off from, but an archive.ph screenshot is being widely circulated on social media. Bets on Maduro being ousted from power spiked on Friday night Maduro was captured in a two-hour-and-twenty-minute mission by air, land and sea by the US military and taken out of his country, shocking the world. Brazil's President Lula da Silva called it "yet another extremely dangerous precedent for the entire international community". Trump said later that they were "going to do this four days ago, three days ago, two days ago, and then all of a sudden it opened up." Besides, according to the Wall Street Journal, there were six contracts of Maduro-leaves-power bets on Polymarket, and a total of $56.6 million worth of bets were placed. $40 million of it was called that Maduro would leave by November 30 or December 31, both of which proved wrong. On Friday night, there was a sudden spike in bets on Maduro being ousted. Meanwhile, according to bettors, Maduro's chances of being freed aren't very bright this year. There is a mere 1 per cent chance of his release by January 9, and only 15 per cent by the end of 2026. Also Read: Trump's 'ominous warning' before US grabbed Venezuela president Nicolas Maduro and his wife: Be 'smart' or else... How Operation Absolute Resolve went down In order to increase the element of surprise, the military had a false start with Trump ordering the strike four days earlier, but no action was initiated. "Over the weeks through Christmas and New Year, the men and women of the United States military sat ready, patiently waiting for the right triggers to be met and the president to order us into action," General Dan Caine, the US's highest-ranking military officer, told reporters on Saturday morning. Also Read: ‘Cuba is ready to fall’: Trump’s BIG warning after admitting ‘a lot of Cubans killed’ in US strikes against Venezuela https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-venezuela-tensions-trump-threatens-venezuela-s-new-leader-1767585062647/embed Trump on Venezuela Maduro operation Trump called it "an incredible thing to see," and that it was like "watching a television show." His order came when it was almost midnight in Caracas. More than 150 aircraft, including bombers, fighter jets and reconnaissance planes, swarmed the skies. At around 2 am local time, loud explosions were heard, and smoke was seen rising over the city. Maduro, who was under the watch of Cuban bodyguards, tried to make it to a safe room, but failed. "He was trying to get to a safe place, which wasn't safe, because we would have had the door blown up in about 47 seconds," Trump said. Venezuelan Defence Minister Vladimir Padrino said on Sunday that the operation led to the killing of a "large part" of Maduro's security team and "soldiers and innocent civilians".

Polymarket bets on Maduro: An account that looks brand new got $30,000 in bets on the ouster of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, and made $436,759 by Saturday morning. Was it a wild guess? Probably, since there were six contracts on Maduro.

Maduro captured: A new Polymarket account made $436,759 overnight on Operation Absolute Resolve. A wild guess?

US President Donald Trump on Sunday (Jan 4) claimed that India has substantially reduced its oil purchases from Russia after he imposed 50 per cent tariffs on Indian goods. Trump also warned that the US can raise tariffs on India “very quickly.” This comes after American forces launched strikes in Venezuela’s Caracas and captured their leader, Nicolas Maduro.“We could raise tariffs on India if they don’t help on the Russian oil issue.” Trump said, speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One. Trump further claimed, “They wanted to make me happy. Basically, Modi is a very good man. He knew I was not happy, and it was important to make me happy. We do trade, and we can raise tariffs on them very quickly.”Relations between India and the US soured after Trump doubled tariffs on the Asian country, citing its oil imports from Russia, which the US President has claimed is helping to fund Russia’s war in Ukraine. Since then, several rounds of negotiations have happened as part of an effort to secure a trade deal between the two countries.US Senator Lindsey Graham said that the tariffs imposed by Trump on India are the “chief reason” that New Delhi has reduced its purchase of Russian oil substantially.Graham also claimed that Indian Ambassador to the US Vinay Mohan Kwatra spoke to him last month over India buying less Russian oil. He added that Kwatra asked him to tell Trump to relive the 25 per cent tariffs which was imposed as a punishment for purchasing Russian oil.“I was at the Indian Ambassador's house a month ago, and all he wanted to talk about was how India is buying less Russian oil. And he asked me to tell the President to relieve the 25 per cent tariff,” Graham told reporters alongside Trump.

This comes after American forces launched strikes in Venezuela’s Caracas and captured their leader, Nicolas Maduro.

US President Donald Trump on Sunday (Jan 4) claimed that India has substantially reduced its oil purchases from Russia after he imposed 50 per cent tariffs on Indian goods. Trump also warned that the US can raise tariffs on India “very quickly.” This comes after American forces launched strikes in Venezuela’s Caracas and captured their leader, Nicolas Maduro. “We could raise tariffs on India if they don’t help on the Russian oil issue.” Trump said, speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One. Trump further claimed, “They wanted to make me happy. Basically, Modi is a very good man. He knew I was not happy, and it was important to make me happy. We do trade, and we can raise tariffs on them very quickly.” Relations between India and the US soured after Trump doubled tariffs on the Asian country, citing its oil imports from Russia, which the US President has claimed is helping to fund Russia’s war in Ukraine. Since then, several rounds of negotiations have happened as part of an effort to secure a trade deal between the two countries. US Senator Lindsey Graham said that the tariffs imposed by Trump on India are the “chief reason” that New Delhi has reduced its purchase of Russian oil substantially. Graham also claimed that Indian Ambassador to the US Vinay Mohan Kwatra spoke to him last month over India buying less Russian oil. He added that Kwatra asked him to tell Trump to relive the 25 per cent tariffs which was imposed as a punishment for purchasing Russian oil. “I was at the Indian Ambassador's house a month ago, and all he wanted to talk about was how India is buying less Russian oil. And he asked me to tell the President to relieve the 25 per cent tariff,” Graham told reporters alongside Trump.

This comes after American forces launched strikes in Venezuela’s Caracas and captured their leader, Nicolas Maduro.

‘Modi is a good man…’: Trump says THIS on India’s Russian oil purchase, tariffs after strike on Venezuela

The United States on Saturday (Jan 3) captured Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, in what it described as its war against drug cartels and drug lords. In an operation titled Operation Absolute Resolve, the American forces entered Venezuela, bombed Caracas and captured the Venezuelan leader and his wife, Cilia Flores, from their presidential palace under the direction of US President Donald Trump.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.A day after the US operation, Trump claimed that ‘a lot of Cubans were killed’, while no US soldiers died in the operation. Havana authorities said that 32 Cubans were killed, while the Colombian President said that one person from his country was also killed.Speaking to reporters, Trump said that Washington will rule Venezuela “until such time as we can do a safe, proper and judicious transition.” Trump also said that “very large United States oil companies” would move into Venezuela to “fix the badly broken… oil infrastructure and start making money for the country.” He echoed the same on Sunday while talking to reporters aboard Air Force One. However, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said that the US does not plan to take on a day-to-day governing role in Venezuela.Meanwhile, Venezuela’s interim president Delcy Rodriguez on Sunday (Jan 4) called for a “balanced and respectful” relationship with the United States.

Jorge Rodriguez has been re-appointed as head of the National Assembly

US-Venezuela conflict LIVE updates: Venezuela's Jorge Rodriguez re-appointed as head of National Assembly

On Monday (January 5), Russia's ambassador to the United Nations, Vasily Nebenzya, demanded that the United States release now-ousted Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro. He warned that Washington’s actions could mark the beginning of a new era of colonialism and imperialism. Nebenzya described the US attack on Venezuela’s leader as a sign of a return to lawlessness and a period of American dominance through force.

US-Venezuela conflict LIVE updates: Russia calls for Maduro’s release

An emergency meeting of the United Nations Security Council has commenced to address the ongoing situation in Venezuela, with the agenda focusing on 'threats to international peace and security.'

US-Venezuela conflict LIVE updates: UNSC meeting on Venezuela starts 

&lt;blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"&gt;&lt;p lang="en" dir="ltr"&gt;Armored vehicles, armed guards, and a helicopter: Footage captures the high-security transfer of Nicolas Maduro from a Brooklyn jail to a Manhattan courthouse&lt;br&gt;.&lt;br&gt;.&lt;br&gt;.&lt;br&gt;.&lt;br&gt;.&lt;a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NicolasMaduro?src=hash&amp;amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;#NicolasMaduro&lt;/a&gt; &lt;a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Venezuela?src=hash&amp;amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;#Venezuela&lt;/a&gt; &lt;a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UnitedStates?src=hash&amp;amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;#UnitedStates&lt;/a&gt; &lt;a href="https://t.co/6dUoJC4mte"&gt;pic.twitter.com/6dUoJC4mte&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&amp;mdash; WION (@WIONews) &lt;a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/2008177124314902755?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;January 5, 2026&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/blockquote&gt; &lt;script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"&gt;&lt;/script&gt;

US-Venezuela conflict LIVE updates: Armored vehicles, armed guards, and a helicopter: Footage captures the high-security transfer of Nicolas Maduro from a Brooklyn jail to a Manhattan courthouse

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has once again criticised the United States’ involvement in Venezuela and the attempt to remove President Nicolas Maduro. Speaking at a press briefing in Mexico City on Monday (Jan 5), Sheinbaum emphasised that Mexico maintains a consistent and long-standing stance against foreign interference. She stressed that the country “unequivocally opposes meddling in the domestic affairs of other nations.”

US-Venezuela conflict LIVE updates: Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum condemns US action in Venezuela

David Wikstrom has been appointed by the court to represent ousted Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro at his first court appearance in New York, a source familiar with the matter told CNN.

US-Venezuela conflict LIVE updates: Maduro gets court-appointed attorney

Maduro and his wife have arrived at a Manhattan court building, where the charges against him will be read later soon.&nbsp;&lt;blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"&gt;&lt;p lang="en" dir="ltr"&gt;BREAKING: Nicolás Maduro seen being transported to New York City court for his arraignment days after American forces captured him in his own presidential palace. &lt;a href="https://t.co/eOHcUNoND9"&gt;pic.twitter.com/eOHcUNoND9&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&amp;mdash; Fox News (@FoxNews) &lt;a href="https://twitter.com/FoxNews/status/2008151709454160144?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;January 5, 2026&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/blockquote&gt; &lt;script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"&gt;&lt;/script&gt;

US-Venezuela conflict LIVE updates: Handcuffed Maduro and his wife arrives at New York courthouse

Oil prices declined on Monday as ample global supply countered worries over possible disruptions following the United States' capture of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro.Brent crude futures fell 23 cents, or 0.4%, to $60.52 a barrel, while US West Texas Intermediate crude slipped 21 cents, or 0.4%, to $57.11 a barrel.

Oil prices swing after Nicolas Maduro's ouster

President Donald Trump's calls that Greenland should become part of the United States was met with international condemnation Monday as the autonomous Danish territory's prime minister warned, "That's enough now".Washington's military intervention in Venezuela has reignited fears for Greenland, which Trump has repeatedly said he wants to annex, given its strategic location in the Arctic.While aboard Air Force One en route to Washington, Trump reiterated the goal."We need Greenland from the standpoint of national security, and Denmark is not going to be able to do it," he said in response to a reporter's question."We'll worry about Greenland in about two months... let's talk about Greenland in 20 days."The territory's prime minister issued a clear warning: "That's enough now.""No more pressure. No more insinuations. No more fantasies of annexation," Jens-Frederik Nielsen said on Facebook.

'That's enough': Greenland PM reacts to Trump threats

Iran on Monday (Jan 5) called for the release of Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro, who was captured in a US military operation under US President Donald Trump. Calling it an “illegal act”, the Islamic Republic’s Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baqaei said that “abducting” the president of a country and his wife was “nothing to be proud of”.Read more <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-illegal-act-iran-slams-capture-of-maduro-vows-ties-with-venezuela-remain-unchanged-1767603055944">here</a>.

Iran said on Monday that its relations with close ally Venezuela remained unchanged despite the United States capturing its leader Nicolas Maduro and taking him to New York for trial."Our relations with all countries, including Venezuela, are based on mutual respect and will remain so," Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baqaei said at a press conference. "We are in contact with the Venezuelan authorities."

Iran says relations with Venezuela unchanged by ousting of Maduro

United States President Donald Trump on Sunday (Jan 4) insisted that his country is "in charge" of Venezuela after the capturing of former President Nicolas Maduro. This comes after Trump declared that the US will run the country and fix the badly broken oil infrastructure and “start making money for the country.” However, it comes in contrast with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio who said that Washington does not plan to take on a day-to-day governing role in Venezuela.Read more <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-us-in-charge-but-rubio-insists-america-will-only-enforce-oil-quarantine-who-actually-is-running-venezuela-1767576329603">here</a>.

Iran called on Monday for the release of Nicholas Maduro, the ousted president of Tehran's close ally Venezuela who was seized in a US military operation and taken to New York to stand trial."The president of a country and his wife were abducted. It's nothing to be proud of; it's an illegal act," foreign ministry spokesman Esmail Baqaei said at a weekly press conference. "As the Venezuelan people have emphasised, their president must be released."

Iran calls for release of Venezuela's Maduro

After capturing Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and launching strikes in Caracas, US President Donald Trump issued a fresh warning to the South American nation, suggesting a second strike in the country “if they don’t behave”. This comes after American forces on Saturday (Jan 3) seized the Venezuelan leader in what it described as its war against drug cartels and drug lords.Read more <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/second-strike-in-venezuela-trump-s-fresh-warning-after-capturing-maduro-if-they-don-t-behave-1767598959502">here</a>.

Second strike in Venezuela? Trump’s fresh warning after capturing Maduro

Colombia's President Gustavo Petro on Sunday rejected threats by his US counterpart, Donald Trump, who also accused him of being a drug trafficker.US forces attacked Caracas in the early hours of Saturday, bombing military targets during a shock snatch-and-grab raid to remove Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro from power and assert Washington's control over the oil-rich South American nation.

Colombian president rejects Trump threats, says 'stop slandering me'

Trump warned Mexico, Colombia and Cuba after a US operation in Venezuela that captured Nicolas Maduro. He claimed Mexico’s leader is “scared,” hinted at targeting Colombia’s president, said Cuba is “ready to fall,” and acknowledged dozens killed in Caracas.Read more <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/trump-to-expand-his-drug-war-us-president-s-ominous-warning-to-mexico-colombia-cuba-after-capturing-venezuela-s-maduro-1767591384481/1767591384482">here</a>.

Nicolás Maduro is set to make his first appearance in a US federal court on Monday (Jan 5) after being captured by the US forces on Saturday (Jan 3). The Venezuelan leader is awaiting trail in New York City on federal criminal charges including narco-terrorism conspiracy and cocaine import.

Maduro scheduled to make court appearance in NYC

Venezuelan communication minister announces commission to seek Maduro's release

Venezuelan communication minister announces commission to seek Maduro's release

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said Sunday that Venezuelans in the U.S. who were previously under temporary protective status (TPS) can apply for asylum.“Every individual that was under TPS has the opportunity to apply for refugee status and that evaluation will go forward,” Noem told host Gillian Turner on “Fox News Sunday.”&nbsp;Noem ended TPS last year for roughly 600,000 Venezuelan migrants who received protected status from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) under the Biden administration. After the US captured Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, early Saturday morning, Venezuelan migrants in South Florida took to the streets to celebrate.

Venezuelans under temporary protective status can apply for asylum: Noem

“Venezuela reaffirms its commitment to peace and peaceful coexistence. Our country aspires to live without external threats, in an environment of respect and international cooperation. We believe that global peace is built by first guaranteeing peace within each nation,” said Delcy Rodríguez, Acting President of Venezuela.“We invite the US government to collaborate with us on an agenda of cooperation oriented towards shared development within the framework of international law to strengthen lasting community coexistence,” she added.Rodríguez further said, “President Donald Trump, our peoples and our region deserve peace and dialogue, not war. This has always been President Nicolás Maduro’s message, and it is the message of all of Venezuela right now. This is the Venezuela I believe in and have dedicated my life to. I dream of a Venezuela where all good Venezuelans can come together.”“Venezuela has the right to peace, development, sovereignty and a future,” she concluded.

Venezuelan acting president urges 'dialogue, not war'

US President Donald Trump on Sunday (Jan 4) said that Cuba was “ready to fall” after US forces captured Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro days earlier. Trump added that “a lot of Cubans were killed” during the US operation to seize the Venezuelan leader.Read more <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-cuba-is-ready-to-to-fall-trump-warns-says-a-lot-of-cubans-killed-in-us-strikes-against-venezuela-1767578601251">here</a>.

Trump’s BIG warning to Cuba after admitting ‘a lot of Cubans killed’

A day after the US operation, Trump claimed that ‘a lot of Cubans were killed’, while no US soldiers died in the operation. Havana authorities said that 32 Cubans were killed, while the Colombian President said that one person from his country was also killed.

The United States on Saturday (Jan 3) captured Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, in what it described as its war against drug cartels and drug lords. In an operation titled Operation Absolute Resolve, the American forces entered Venezuela, bombed Caracas and captured the Venezuelan leader and his wife, Cilia Flores, from their presidential palace under the direction of US President Donald Trump. 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. A day after the US operation, Trump claimed that ‘a lot of Cubans were killed’, while no US soldiers died in the operation. Havana authorities said that 32 Cubans were killed, while the Colombian President said that one person from his country was also killed. Speaking to reporters, Trump said that Washington will rule Venezuela “until such time as we can do a safe, proper and judicious transition.” Trump also said that “very large United States oil companies” would move into Venezuela to “fix the badly broken… oil infrastructure and start making money for the country.” He echoed the same on Sunday while talking to reporters aboard Air Force One. However, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said that the US does not plan to take on a day-to-day governing role in Venezuela. Meanwhile, Venezuela’s interim president Delcy Rodriguez on Sunday (Jan 4) called for a “balanced and respectful” relationship with the United States.

Ousted Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, along with his wife Cilia Flores, were produced in a New York court, where they pleaded not guilty to the charges. The judge has now set the date for next hearing on March 17

US-Venezuela conflict HIGHLIGHTS: Maduro, wife plead not guilty to charges

Amid massive protest in Iran and a day after American strike on Venezuela, US President Donald Trump warned Iran that it would get "hit very hard" by the United States if more protesters die. The US president was speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, and he also commented on Cuba, Venezuela, Indian oil purchase from Russia and the contentious Greenland issue. Demonstrations against Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has entered second week.&nbsp;"We're watching it very closely. If they start killing people like they have in the past, I think they're going to get hit very hard by the United States," Trump told reporters. Earlier on Jan 2, he had taken to Truth Social and said, “We are locked and loaded and ready to go. Thank you for your attention to this matter.” Ali Larijani, a senior adviser to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei had slammed Trumpa after his warning. He said any US interference in Iranian protests would lead more turbulence in the region. Larijani’s remarks came after the US president’s warning indicating that Washington would not keep silent if Tehran used lethal force against peaceful protesters.<h2>Iran Protest: Is regime change imminent?</h2>Iranians have taken to street to protest against the economic collapse, and are demanding political regime change and personal freedom. The protest was triggered after the Iranian rial hit a record low of approximately 1.45 million to 1 USD in December 2025, losing nearly half its value since the start of the year. Soon after, inflation hit all time high with food prices surging by 72 per cent and medical goods by 50 per cent. The widespread protest also comes after a 2026 budget proposed 62 per cent tax increase.&nbsp;&nbsp;Protests began on December 28 when the bazaari (merchant class) closed their shops and took to the streets. It expanded to Ahvaz, Hamadan, Qeshm, and Mashhad. Some videos also show protesters chanting slogans in support of Iranian Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi, who is the exiled eldest son of the last Shah of Iran, Mohammad Reza Shah.&nbsp;&nbsp;At least 12 people, including members of the security forces, have been killed since, according to a toll based on official reports. The demonstrations are the most significant in Iran since a 2022-2023 movement sparked by the death in custody of Mahsa Amini, who had been arrested for allegedly violating Iran's strict dress code for women.&nbsp;Meanwhile, Iran’s Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has a back-up plan to flee the country should his security forces fail to suppress protests, according to an intelligence report shared with The Times. Beni Sabti, who served for decades in Israeli intelligence after fleeing the regime eight years after the Islamic revolution, told The Times that Khamenei would flee to Moscow as “there is no other place for him”.

Amid nationwide protests in Iran, US President Donald Trump warned Tehran of harsh consequences if more protesters are killed. Protests over economic collapse and inflation have spread nationwide, with regime-change chants growing as tensions rise between Iran and the US.

Amid massive protest in Iran and a day after American strike on Venezuela, US President Donald Trump warned Iran that it would get "hit very hard" by the United States if more protesters die. The US president was speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, and he also commented on Cuba, Venezuela, Indian oil purchase from Russia and the contentious Greenland issue. Demonstrations against Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has entered second week. "We're watching it very closely. If they start killing people like they have in the past, I think they're going to get hit very hard by the United States," Trump told reporters. Earlier on Jan 2, he had taken to Truth Social and said, “We are locked and loaded and ready to go. Thank you for your attention to this matter.” Ali Larijani, a senior adviser to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei had slammed Trumpa after his warning. He said any US interference in Iranian protests would lead more turbulence in the region. Larijani’s remarks came after the US president’s warning indicating that Washington would not keep silent if Tehran used lethal force against peaceful protesters. Iran Protest: Is regime change imminent? Iranians have taken to street to protest against the economic collapse, and are demanding political regime change and personal freedom. The protest was triggered after the Iranian rial hit a record low of approximately 1.45 million to 1 USD in December 2025, losing nearly half its value since the start of the year. Soon after, inflation hit all time high with food prices surging by 72 per cent and medical goods by 50 per cent. The widespread protest also comes after a 2026 budget proposed 62 per cent tax increase. Protests began on December 28 when the bazaari (merchant class) closed their shops and took to the streets. It expanded to Ahvaz, Hamadan, Qeshm, and Mashhad. Some videos also show protesters chanting slogans in support of Iranian Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi, who is the exiled eldest son of the last Shah of Iran, Mohammad Reza Shah. At least 12 people, including members of the security forces, have been killed since, according to a toll based on official reports. The demonstrations are the most significant in Iran since a 2022-2023 movement sparked by the death in custody of Mahsa Amini, who had been arrested for allegedly violating Iran's strict dress code for women. Meanwhile, Iran’s Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has a back-up plan to flee the country should his security forces fail to suppress protests, according to an intelligence report shared with The Times. Beni Sabti, who served for decades in Israeli intelligence after fleeing the regime eight years after the Islamic revolution, told The Times that Khamenei would flee to Moscow as “there is no other place for him”.

Amid nationwide protests in Iran, US President Donald Trump warned Tehran of harsh consequences if more protesters are killed. Protests over economic collapse and inflation have spread nationwide, with regime-change chants growing as tensions rise between Iran and the US.

'If they start killing people...': Trump warns Khamenei of strike as Iran protest enters second week

US President Donald Trump on Sunday (Jan 4) said that Cuba was “ready to fall” after US forces captured Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro days earlier. Trump added that “a lot of Cubans were killed” during the US operation to seize the Venezuelan leader.“Cuba is ready to fall,” Trump told reporters on Air Force One, adding that it would be hard for Havana to “hold out” without receiving heavily subsidised Venezuelan oil.“I don’t think we need any action. It looks like it’s going down,” he added.Speaking of casualties during the US operation, Trump said, “You know, a lot of Cubans were killed yesterday,” adding that there was “a lot of death on the other side, unfortunately.”Meanwhile, Havana authorities said that 32 Cubans were killed during the US attack on Caracas that resulted in the capture of Maduro.&nbsp;<h2>‘Criminal attack’</h2>In a statement, the Cuban government called the US operations in Venezuela a “criminal attack”.“As a result of the criminal attack carried out by the government of the United States” against Venezuela, “32 Cubans lost their lives in combat operations,” the statement read.&nbsp;The deceased were members of Cuba’s Revolutionary Armed Forces or the Ministry of the Interior who were carrying out missions “at the request of counterpart agencies,” Cuban officials said.Two days of national mourning were declared in Cuba beginning at dawn Monday (Jan 5). Havana has also pledged to organise tributes. The Cuban president has called the US forces “terrorists in imperial uniform.”“Honour and glory to the brave Cuban fighters who fell facing terrorists in imperial uniform,” Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez wrote on X.In an operation titled Operation Absolute Resolve, the American forces entered Venezuela, bombed Caracas and captured the Venezuelan leader and his wife, Cilia Flores, from their presidential palace under the direction of US President Donald Trump.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 Monday (Jan 5).

Meanwhile, Havana authorities said that 32 Cubans were killed during the US attack on Caracas that resulted in the capture of Maduro.

US President Donald Trump on Sunday (Jan 4) said that Cuba was “ready to fall” after US forces captured Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro days earlier. Trump added that “a lot of Cubans were killed” during the US operation to seize the Venezuelan leader. “Cuba is ready to fall,” Trump told reporters on Air Force One, adding that it would be hard for Havana to “hold out” without receiving heavily subsidised Venezuelan oil. “I don’t think we need any action. It looks like it’s going down,” he added. Speaking of casualties during the US operation, Trump said, “You know, a lot of Cubans were killed yesterday,” adding that there was “a lot of death on the other side, unfortunately.” Meanwhile, Havana authorities said that 32 Cubans were killed during the US attack on Caracas that resulted in the capture of Maduro. ‘Criminal attack’ In a statement, the Cuban government called the US operations in Venezuela a “criminal attack”. “As a result of the criminal attack carried out by the government of the United States” against Venezuela, “32 Cubans lost their lives in combat operations,” the statement read. The deceased were members of Cuba’s Revolutionary Armed Forces or the Ministry of the Interior who were carrying out missions “at the request of counterpart agencies,” Cuban officials said. Two days of national mourning were declared in Cuba beginning at dawn Monday (Jan 5). Havana has also pledged to organise tributes. The Cuban president has called the US forces “terrorists in imperial uniform.” “Honour and glory to the brave Cuban fighters who fell facing terrorists in imperial uniform,” Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez wrote on X. In an operation titled Operation Absolute Resolve, the American forces entered Venezuela, bombed Caracas and captured the Venezuelan leader and his wife, Cilia Flores, from their presidential palace under the direction of US President Donald Trump. 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 Monday (Jan 5).

Meanwhile, Havana authorities said that 32 Cubans were killed during the US attack on Caracas that resulted in the capture of Maduro.

‘Cuba is ready to fall’: Trump’s BIG warning after admitting ‘a lot of Cubans killed’ in US strikes against Venezuela

A 27-year-old Indian woman, who was reportedly missing from New Year's eve, has been found dead with stab wounds in her ex-boyfriend's Columbia apartment in Maryland, according to the Howard County police on Sunday (Jan 4). The woman has been identified as Nikitha Godishala. Authorities said that it was her ex-boyfriend, identified as Arjun Sharma, who filed missing complaint. However, soon after he left from the US on a flight to India. Howard County police suspect that the ex-boyfriend is responsible for Godishala's death and an arrest warrant has been issued against him on charges of first- and second-degree murder.&nbsp;Meanwhile, the Indian Embassy in the USA said that it is in contact with the family of Nikitha Godishala and is extending all possible consular assistance. “The Embassy is also following up the matter with the local authorities,” it said in a statement.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The Embassy is in contact with the family of Ms. Nikitha Godishala and is extending all possible consular assistance. The Embassy is also following up the matter with the local authorities. <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MEAIndia</a>&mdash; India in USA (@IndianEmbassyUS) <a href="https://twitter.com/IndianEmbassyUS/status/2007850134948995109?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 4, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tragic-indian-student-in-germany-dies-after-jumping-off-apartment-to-escape-fire-1767351217347"> Indian student in Germany dies after jumping off apartment to escape fire</a><h2>Here's what happened</h2>The Howard County police said that it located a woman who was reported missing on Jan 2. She was found with stab wounds in the Columbia apartment of her ex-boyfriend. Arjun Sharma, 26, of Columbia, made the missing person report to police and said he last saw his ex-girlfriend, Nikitha Godishala, of Ellicott City, on Dec. 31 in his apartment in the 10100 block of Twin Rivers Road. Police later learned that on the same day as making the report, Jan. 2, Sharma left the country on a flight to India. Detectives on Jan. 3 executed a search warrant for his apartment and located Godishala deceased. A motive has not yet been determined, and the investigation remains ongoing. Police suspect that Sharma killed Godishala.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-student-found-dead-in-russia-19-days-after-he-went-missing-had-stepped-out-to-buy-milk-1762491525445">Indian student found dead in Russia 19 days after he went missing; had stepped out to ‘buy milk’</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HoCoPolice?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HoCoPolice</a> located a woman reported missing on Jan. 2 deceased with stab wounds in the Columbia apartment of her ex-boyfriend and obtained a warrant for his arrest on first- and second-degree murder charges.<a href="https://t.co/RzEIWTUA8k">https://t.co/RzEIWTUA8k</a>&mdash; Howard County Police Department (@HCPDNews) <a href="https://twitter.com/HCPDNews/status/2007842690273362154?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 4, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

A 27-year-old Indian woman, Nikitha Godishala, was found stabbed to death in her ex-boyfriend’s Maryland apartment after being reported missing since New Year’s Eve. Police suspect ex-boyfriend Arjun Sharma, who fled to India; a murder warrant has been issued.

A 27-year-old Indian woman, who was reportedly missing from New Year's eve, has been found dead with stab wounds in her ex-boyfriend's Columbia apartment in Maryland, according to the Howard County police on Sunday (Jan 4). The woman has been identified as Nikitha Godishala. Authorities said that it was her ex-boyfriend, identified as Arjun Sharma, who filed missing complaint. However, soon after he left from the US on a flight to India. Howard County police suspect that the ex-boyfriend is responsible for Godishala's death and an arrest warrant has been issued against him on charges of first- and second-degree murder. Meanwhile, the Indian Embassy in the USA said that it is in contact with the family of Nikitha Godishala and is extending all possible consular assistance. “The Embassy is also following up the matter with the local authorities,” it said in a statement.

A 27-year-old Indian woman, Nikitha Godishala, was found stabbed to death in her ex-boyfriend’s Maryland apartment after being reported missing since New Year’s Eve. Police suspect ex-boyfriend Arjun Sharma, who fled to India; a murder warrant has been issued.

Indian woman found dead in ex-boyfriend's apartment in US, suspect flees to India - What's the case

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

Kim Jong Un said North Korea’s hypersonic missile tests rehearse real war amid rising tensions. Pyongyang condemned the US capture of Venezuela’s Nicolas Maduro as a sovereignty breach. The US says launches pose no immediate threat; Japan issued alerts as Seoul seeks China’s help.

'Preparing for actual war': North Korea reveals REAL reason for missile launch amid US attack on Venezuela

On orders of President Donald Trump, US forces captured Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro and his wife, protests erupt in Pakistan, condemning the act by America. Dozens of protesters demonstrated in front of the Karachi Press Club on Sunday (January 4), to condemn the United States' military intervention in Venezuela and the capture of president Maduro more than 24 hours earlier.&nbsp;&nbsp;Maduro is currently in a New York detention centre awaiting a Monday court appearance on drug charges, after US President Donald Trump ordered his removal and said the US would take control of Venezuela. But in Caracas, top officials in Maduro's government, who have called the detentions of Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores a kidnapping, were still in charge. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-freedom-democracy-peace-and-prosperity-canada-supports-venezuela-led-transition-process-1767525828262">'Freedom, democracy, peace, and prosperity': Canada supports Venezuela-led transition process</a> &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;The US move has caused deep uncertainty about what is next for the oil-rich South American nation and provoked strong condemnation from a number of leaders in Latin America as well as the United Nations, which described it as a dangerous precedent and convened a meeting of the Security Council for Monday. Organised by the National Trade Union Federation Pakistan (NTUF) and the Home-Based Women Workers Federation, Pakistan (HBWWF), the demonstrators demanded the immediate release of Maduro. This military action was not about restoring democracy. In a rambling press conference at Mar-a-Lago, Trump openly declared that the United States would “run the country,” effectively announcing an occupation with no legal basis. He repeatedly referenced Venezuela’s oil reserves, saying American companies would now be “very much involved.” &nbsp; &nbsp;

Maduro is currently in a New York detention centre awaiting a Monday court appearance on drug charges, after US President Donald Trump ordered his removal and said the US would take control of Venezuela. 

On orders of President Donald Trump, US forces captured Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro and his wife, protests erupt in Pakistan, condemning the act by America. Dozens of protesters demonstrated in front of the Karachi Press Club on Sunday (January 4), to condemn the United States' military intervention in Venezuela and the capture of president Maduro more than 24 hours earlier. Maduro is currently in a New York detention centre awaiting a Monday court appearance on drug charges, after US President Donald Trump ordered his removal and said the US would take control of Venezuela. But in Caracas, top officials in Maduro's government, who have called the detentions of Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores a kidnapping, were still in charge. Also read: 'Freedom, democracy, peace, and prosperity': Canada supports Venezuela-led transition process The US move has caused deep uncertainty about what is next for the oil-rich South American nation and provoked strong condemnation from a number of leaders in Latin America as well as the United Nations, which described it as a dangerous precedent and convened a meeting of the Security Council for Monday. Organised by the National Trade Union Federation Pakistan (NTUF) and the Home-Based Women Workers Federation, Pakistan (HBWWF), the demonstrators demanded the immediate release of Maduro. This military action was not about restoring democracy. In a rambling press conference at Mar-a-Lago, Trump openly declared that the United States would “run the country,” effectively announcing an occupation with no legal basis. He repeatedly referenced Venezuela’s oil reserves, saying American companies would now be “very much involved.”

Maduro is currently in a New York detention centre awaiting a Monday court appearance on drug charges, after US President Donald Trump ordered his removal and said the US would take control of Venezuela.&nbsp;

US forces capture Venezuelan Prez Nicolas Maduro, protests erupt in Pakistan

Nigeria's drug enforcement agency Sunday (Jan 04) said it had arrested 22 Indian crew members of a merchant ship after 31.5 kilogrammes of cocaine was found on the vessel at Lagos's main port.&nbsp;The seizure was made on January 2 aboard &nbsp;MV Aruna Hulya, which "originated from the Marshall Islands," Femi Babafemi, spokesman for the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), said in a statement.&nbsp;Nigeria has long been considered a trafficking and production hub for drugs bound for Europe and other African countries.&nbsp;The agency said in November that it arrested 20 Filipino sailors caught ferrying at least 20 kilogrammes of cocaine from Brazil to the same port.&nbsp;Earlier that month, NDLEA said it was working with US and British anti-drug agencies to investigate a cartel behind the importation of 1,000 kilograms of cocaine discovered in a container at a Lagos port.<h2>Over 30 killed, several kidnapped in Nigeria</h2> In a separate incident, armed gangs killed more than 30 people and kidnapped others in a raid in Nigeria in the same state where hundreds of schoolchildren were abducted late last year, police said Sunday.&nbsp;The gangs swept into Kasuwan Daji village, in the Kabe district of the western Niger State on Saturday and set a market ablaze, before looting shops for food, they said.&nbsp;"Over 30 victims lost their lives during the attack, some persons were also kidnapped," Wasiu Abiodun, Niger state police spokesman said.&nbsp;President Bola Tinubu's office said the attackers may have been "terrorists" fleeing from parts of northwestern Nigeria followed Christmas Day airstrikes by the United States that targeted militants linked to the Islamic State group.&nbsp;The attackers "will be caught and brought to justice", along with any who helped them, Tinubu vowed in a statement relayed by his media adviser Bayo Onanuga.Images viewed by AFP showed some of those killed in the raid had their hands tied behind their backs.&nbsp;Gangs -- known in Nigeria as "bandits" -- frequently carry out mass kidnappings for ransom and loot villages in parts of Nigeria.&nbsp;Niger state has been one of the hardest hit in recent months.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/venezuela-election-talks-premature-rubio-says-us-focused-on-policy-changes-united-states-marco-rubio-america-caracas-maduro-1767545637894">Venezuela election talk ‘premature’: Rubio says US ready to work with current leaders if they make ‘right decision’</a>&nbsp;In November, armed gangs seized more than 250 students and staff from a Catholic school in the state.&nbsp;Authorities announced their release in two batches weeks later, without saying whether a ransom was paid.&nbsp;The latest attack took place less than 20 kilometres (12 miles) from Papiri village where the students and teachers were snatched from their school.&nbsp;The local church for the area put the death toll from Saturday's raid at more than 40, higher than the figure given by police.&nbsp;"Reports indicate the bandits operated for hours with no security presence," the Catholic Church in Kontagora said on its Facebook page.

The seizure was made on January 2 aboard  MV Aruna Hulya, which "originated from the Marshall Islands," Femi Babafemi, spokesman for the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), said in a statement.

Nigeria's drug enforcement agency Sunday (Jan 04) said it had arrested 22 Indian crew members of a merchant ship after 31.5 kilogrammes of cocaine was found on the vessel at Lagos's main port. The seizure was made on January 2 aboard MV Aruna Hulya, which "originated from the Marshall Islands," Femi Babafemi, spokesman for the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), said in a statement. Nigeria has long been considered a trafficking and production hub for drugs bound for Europe and other African countries. The agency said in November that it arrested 20 Filipino sailors caught ferrying at least 20 kilogrammes of cocaine from Brazil to the same port. Earlier that month, NDLEA said it was working with US and British anti-drug agencies to investigate a cartel behind the importation of 1,000 kilograms of cocaine discovered in a container at a Lagos port. Over 30 killed, several kidnapped in Nigeria In a separate incident, armed gangs killed more than 30 people and kidnapped others in a raid in Nigeria in the same state where hundreds of schoolchildren were abducted late last year, police said Sunday. The gangs swept into Kasuwan Daji village, in the Kabe district of the western Niger State on Saturday and set a market ablaze, before looting shops for food, they said. "Over 30 victims lost their lives during the attack, some persons were also kidnapped," Wasiu Abiodun, Niger state police spokesman said. President Bola Tinubu's office said the attackers may have been "terrorists" fleeing from parts of northwestern Nigeria followed Christmas Day airstrikes by the United States that targeted militants linked to the Islamic State group. The attackers "will be caught and brought to justice", along with any who helped them, Tinubu vowed in a statement relayed by his media adviser Bayo Onanuga. Images viewed by AFP showed some of those killed in the raid had their hands tied behind their backs. Gangs -- known in Nigeria as "bandits" -- frequently carry out mass kidnappings for ransom and loot villages in parts of Nigeria. Niger state has been one of the hardest hit in recent months. Also Read: Venezuela election talk ‘premature’: Rubio says US ready to work with current leaders if they make ‘right decision’ In November, armed gangs seized more than 250 students and staff from a Catholic school in the state. Authorities announced their release in two batches weeks later, without saying whether a ransom was paid. The latest attack took place less than 20 kilometres (12 miles) from Papiri village where the students and teachers were snatched from their school. The local church for the area put the death toll from Saturday's raid at more than 40, higher than the figure given by police. "Reports indicate the bandits operated for hours with no security presence," the Catholic Church in Kontagora said on its Facebook page.

The seizure was made on January 2 aboard &nbsp;MV Aruna Hulya, which "originated from the Marshall Islands," Femi Babafemi, spokesman for the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), said in a statement.

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