BREAKING NEWS: U.S. Airstrikes on Venezuela Spark Global Outrage and Fears of Escalation
International Desk
Tv10 Punjab
4 January
In a dramatic and controversial development, the United States has claimed to have carried out large-scale airstrikes on Venezuela in the early hours of the day, triggering a wave of international condemnation and deep concern over regional stability. U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed the operation on his social media platform, Truth Social, calling it a “successful mission” aimed at controlling Venezuela President Nicolás Maduro.
According to Trump’s statement, Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, were captured during the operation and taken out of the country. Trump further claimed that the United States would maintain control in Venezuela until a “smooth and orderly transfer of power” takes place. However, details surrounding the operation, including civilian casualties and the exact location of Maduro, remain unclear.
Reports from Caracas suggested that at least seven explosions were heard in the capital, while U.S. aircraft were seen flying at low altitude. Trump acknowledged that one U.S. helicopter was damaged during the mission and that several American soldiers were injured, though he insisted that no fatalities occurred and the injured personnel had safely returned.
The Venezuela government strongly condemned the action, calling it an “imperialist attack” by the United States. Authorities urged citizens to take to the streets in protest. Vice President Delcy Rodríguez released a statement saying the government had no confirmed information about President Maduro’s whereabouts and demanded proof that he was alive.
In the United States, celebrations were reported in parts of South Florida, particularly in Doral, where a large Venezuelan diaspora lives. People were seen waving Venezuelan flags and chanting slogans in support of what they described as “freedom” for their homeland.
Meanwhile, U.S. officials indicated that Maduro would face criminal prosecution in the United States. Senator Mike Lee said that Secretary of State Marco Rubio had confirmed that charges related to “narco-terrorism” would be pursued. These allegations date back to March 2020, when U.S. authorities accused Maduro of involvement in drug trafficking and terrorism-related activities. U.S. Attorney General Pamela Bondi later announced formal charges in New York, including conspiracy to import cocaine and possession of heavy weapons.
The international response was swift and largely critical. Russia, China, Cuba, Iran, Chile, and several other countries condemned the attack, labeling it an armed assault that violated international law. Russia supported calls for an emergency meeting of the United Nations Security Council, warning that the action endangered peace in the region. The United Kingdom distanced itself from the operation, stating it was not involved and emphasizing the need to respect international law. In contrast, Argentina and Israel expressed support for the U.S. action.
In India, left-wing political parties also condemned the strikes, accusing the United States of pursuing an imperialist agenda to gain control over Venezuela’s vast oil reserves. They called on the UN Security Council to take action against the U.S. and demanded an immediate withdrawal of American forces from the region.
As tensions rise, the situation in Venezuela remains uncertain. With conflicting claims, global condemnation, and the risk of further escalation, the episode has once again raised serious questions about sovereignty, international law, and the use of military force in resolving political disputes.
