Trump Says Maduro Captured After 'Large-Scale Strike' on Venezuela

Is Maduro's capture a victory for democracy, illegal piracy, or simply a negotiated exit disguised as a military operation?

Published 2 days ago

Trump Says Maduro Captured After 'Large-Scale Strike' on Venezuela

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Above: Fire at Fuerte Tiuna, Venezuela's largest military complex, is seen from a distance after a series of explosions in Caracas on Jan. 3, 2026. Image credit: STR/AFP/Getty Images

The Spin

Pro-Trump narrative

Maduro's capture represents a monumental victory for freedom and democracy in Venezuela. History will remember this as the moment Venezuela finally broke free from oppression, and the nation will always thank Trump for this decisive action that will liberate millions suffering under brutal dictatorship and restore hope to a country devastated by tyranny.

Emmanuel Rincón on X

Anti-Trump narrative

This operation amounts to illegal international piracy that violates every principle of sovereignty and international law. Seizing a foreign leader through force sets a dangerous precedent that undermines global order and emboldens lawless aggression. Such gangsterism destroys any remaining credibility of rules-based international relations.

George Galloway on X

Cynical narrative

Maduro's departure is likely a carefully orchestrated negotiated exit, rather than a dramatic capture. Behind the bold headlines lie diplomatic maneuvering and backroom deals that allowed a peaceful transition. The reality may be far less thrilling than the public narrative suggests.

Sky News