Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro was reportedly captured by US military forces in early January 2026 during a large-scale operation in Venezuela. US officials stated Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, were taken into US custody, with former US leaders indicating he will face charges related to narco-terrorism. Venezuela's interim authorities are demanding proof of life and asserting Maduro's legitimacy. The operation has drawn international condemnation from some nations citing sovereignty violations, while others urge peaceful transitions.