In a dramatic development, former US President Donald Trump has released what he claims is the first image of Venezuela's Nicolás Maduro after his capture by American forces. The unprecedented event follows a series of explosions reported in the Venezuelan capital, Caracas.
The Image and Trump's Announcement
The photograph was shared by Trump on his Truth Social platform on Saturday 03 January 2026. It purports to show President Maduro aboard the USS Iwo Jima, presumably en route to New York. In the image, the Venezuelan leader is wearing a flotation device and protective headphones. He appears to be drinking from a water bottle while an individual wearing a jacket emblazoned with 'DEA' stands nearby.
Trump hailed the capture as "an amazing thing" and revealed new details about the US-led strikes and operation that led to Maduro's apprehension. The operation marks a significant and controversial escalation in the long-standing tensions between the United States and the Venezuelan government.
Charges and Legal Proceedings
Maduro and his wife face a series of serious indictments from US authorities. The charges include Narco-Terrorism Conspiracy among several other offenses. This legal action forms the basis for the extraordinary operation to detain the sitting head of state.
The move is without modern precedent and is set to send shockwaves through international diplomatic circles, challenging long-held norms concerning sovereignty and extraterritorial law enforcement.
Implications and Fallout
The capture of President Maduro and the accompanying military action in Caracas are likely to create profound instability within Venezuela and alter geopolitical dynamics in the region. The situation remains fluid, with further updates expected as the story develops.
The decision by a former US president to personally break the news via social media also underscores the evolving relationship between state actions, media, and digital platforms in major global events.
