Shockwaves rippled across Latin America early Saturday after reports claimed that Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro had been detained during a US military operation. The development followed dramatic statements by US President Donald Trump, who said American forces had carried out a “large-scale strike” and captured Venezuela’s leader.
While Venezuelan authorities have remained silent, US media reports and Trump’s own words have placed one elite American unit at the centre of the unfolding crisis — Delta Force. The incident marks a potential turning point in US-Venezuela relations and raises serious questions about sovereignty, escalation, and regime change.
First Photo of Maduro Released After Arrest
A photo circulating on social media appears to show Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro being detained by US military personnel, APA reports. The image comes amid claims by President Donald Trump that Maduro and his wife were captured and flown out of Venezuela.
This development has sparked widespread attention and raised questions about the implications for the region.
Was Nicolas Maduro Captured by US Forces?
According to American media outlet CBS, Maduro was taken into custody early Saturday by members of Delta Force, the US military’s elite special mission unit. The report cited unnamed US officials but did not offer operational details.
Shortly after, Donald Trump appeared to confirm the development on social media. In a post on Truth Social, he said that President Nicolas Maduro and his wife had been “captured and flown out of the country.”
“The United States of America has successfully carried out a large-scale strike against Venezuela and its leader,” Trump wrote. Trump also said US law enforcement agencies were involved, though he did not specify which ones or how the operation unfolded.
What Is Delta Force and Why Does It Matter?
Delta Force, officially called the 1st Special Forces Operational Detachment–Delta (1st SFOD-D), is among the most secretive units in the US military. Formed in 1977, the unit specialises in counterterrorism, hostage rescue, and high-risk capture or kill missions. It operates under the Joint Special Operations Command and works closely with the CIA.
Delta Force previously led the 2019 operation that killed Islamic State leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi. Its involvement typically signals a mission targeting high-value individuals. The unit recruits experienced soldiers from elite Army formations, including Rangers and Special Forces. Missions remain classified, and the Pentagon rarely confirms its deployments.
Why Is Nicolas Maduro a US Target?
Maduro has remained a top US adversary for years. In 2020, an American court indicted him on charges related to narco-terrorism. US authorities accused him of working with drug trafficking groups and using cocaine shipments as a weapon against the United States.
Washington has also accused Maduro of undermining democracy, crushing political opposition, and aligning with US rivals like Russia, China, and Iran. Sanctions and diplomatic pressure have failed to remove him from power, leading many analysts to see recent military action as a dramatic escalation.
What Did Trump Say About the Operation?
Trump’s public comments added fuel to the uncertainty. Along with claiming Maduro’s capture, he confirmed US military action inside Venezuela. “This operation was done in conjunction with US law enforcement,” Trump wrote, promising more details during a press conference later in Florida.
The statement suggests coordination beyond the military, hinting at arrests, extradition, or prosecution plans.
If confirmed, Maduro’s detention would mark the most dramatic US intervention in Venezuela’s history. It could trigger internal instability, military defections, or mass protests. International reaction has already begun. Several governments have warned that the operation could violate international law and worsen regional instability.
Inside Venezuela, uncertainty remains high. Power structures depend heavily on military loyalty. A sudden leadership vacuum could reshape the country’s political future overnight.
Why This Could Change US Foreign Policy
Beyond Venezuela, the operation signals a broader shift in US strategy. Rather than relying on sanctions alone, Washington appears willing to use direct force against hostile leaders.
Supporters say this approach restores deterrence. Critics warn that it risks global backlash and sets a dangerous precedent. As details emerge, one thing remains clear. The reported Delta Force operation has pushed US-Venezuela tensions into uncharted territory.
