US President Donald Trump has claimed that the United States carried out a major military operation in Venezuela, asserting that Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife were detained and taken out of the country. In a social-media statement, Trump said the attack was “well planned” and part of US efforts to target Maduro’s government.

However, Venezuela’s vice-president has denied knowing the whereabouts of Maduro and his wife, demanding proof of life and expressing deep concern over conflicting reports. The situation has sparked regional tensions, with countries like Colombia deploying troops along the border in response to the crisis.

International reactions have been mixed: Spain has called for restraint and respect for international law, while Russia condemned the US actions, urging dialogue and warning against escalating conflict. The Venezuelan government has confirmed attacks in Caracas and multiple states, saying the strikes were aimed at controlling the nation’s oil and mineral resources.