The United States has confirmed the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro following overnight military strikes on Venezuela, marking the most direct U.S. intervention in the country in decades.U.S.

President Donald Trump announced on Saturday that American forces had carried out a “large-scale strike” and that Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, were captured and flown out of Venezuela.

Senior U.S. officials said the operation was conducted by elite U.S. special forces amid months of heightened military pressure on Caracas.

Explosions were reported in the Venezuelan capital, Caracas, and other parts of the country as the strikes targeted what U.S. officials described as key military and security installations.

The U.S. State Department subsequently warned American citizens in Venezuela to shelter in place.Venezuela’s government condemned the operation, describing it as an act of “military aggression” and a violation of national sovereignty.

Vice President Delcy Rodríguez demanded proof of life for Maduro and said the country’s armed forces had been placed on high alert. The Venezuelan military also announced nationwide deployments.

Russia and Iran condemned the U.S. action, calling for an emergency meeting of the United Nations Security Council, while the European Union urged restraint and respect for international law.

Maduro has long been indicted in the United States on charges related to drug trafficking and narcoterrorism, allegations he has consistently denied. U.S. officials indicated that he could now face prosecution in American courts.

The situation in Venezuela remains tense, with regional governments closely monitoring developments amid fears of further escalation and instability.