International Condemnation and Reactions
The US raid on Venezuela has sparked worldwide criticism. The United Nations officials and the US, as well as international law experts, said that the operation was a violation of the UN Charter. While Venezuelans protested, the Venezuelan Diaspora rejoiced at Maduro’s capture.
The Venezuelan government continued to operate despite the strike. Delcy Rodriguez became the acting president on 5 January 2026. The move coincided with the release of several foreigners and political prisoners. On the 24th of February, 545 out of an estimated 800 prisoners who were held before January had been released. A bill that would cover political prisoners from 1999 to 2026 was passed in February.
Diplomatic and Oil Developments
A 50-million-barrel oil deal was announced, with $300 million received by 20 January. On 29 January, Rodríguez passed a law allowing private companies to control oil production and sales. US sanctions on Venezuelan oil were lifted, and trading licenses were issued. US energy secretary Chris Wright reported over $1 billion in oil sales since Maduro’s capture, with an expected $5 billion in the coming months. These developments reflect the changing dynamics in USA vs. Venezuela relations.
Venezuelan Leadership and Controversies
The results of his 2018 election were disputed. 45 countries refused to recognize them, resulting in a crisis. The election of 2024 was also declared fraudulent. Opposition candidate Edmundo González claimed victory. The Biden Administration acknowledged Gonzalez as the president-elect.
Cilia Flores is the wife of Maduro and a leading figure within Chavismo. She was in multiple positions of power and had to deal with travel and corruption sanctions by the US, Canada, and Colombia.
Military Capture and Strikes
US strikes targeted several locations, including Fort Tiuna as well as Higuerote Airport. Over 150 US aircraft, including F-22 Raptors and B-1 Bombers, as well as helicopters and drones were involved. Delta Force soldiers captured the target with CIA support.
Maduro, Flores, and other defendants in drug cases were transported to the Southern District (New York). They both pleaded not guilty. At least 47 Venezuelan soldiers died and 32 Cubans were injured in the strikes. There was also a small number of civilian deaths. Seven US soldiers suffered injuries but recovered.This operation marked a critical moment in the ongoing usa vs venezuela tension.
Immediate Aftermath
Rodríguez assumed the interim presidency, and the Venezuelan military recognized her leadership. The US FAA restricted air operations in Venezuelan airspace due to ongoing military activity. The operation restored US diplomatic presence and initiated steps to stabilize the country while highlighting tensions over Venezuela’s oil and mineral resources.Analysts note that the events have significantly shifted the balance in USA vs. Venezuela relations.
