What Is Really Happening With Nicolás Maduro? Separating Facts From Viral Claims

The January 2026 Operation: A Turning Point
The events that led to Maduro’s current situation began on January 3, 2026, when a large-scale U.S. military operation targeted key locations in Venezuela.

According to reports, the operation involved:

Coordinated air and ground forces
Intelligence support from multiple agencies
A rapid extraction of Maduro and his close associates
He was then transported to the United States and placed in federal custody.

This event marked one of the most dramatic developments in modern Latin American geopolitics and triggered widespread international reaction.

Who Is Leading Venezuela Now?
Following Maduro’s removal from power, leadership in Venezuela shifted to Delcy Rodríguez, who assumed the role of acting president.