RismadarVoice Reporters
January 3, 2026
Venezuela’s Defence Minister has declared that the country will forcefully resist any foreign military presence or attempt to rule the nation, following confirmation by the United States that President Nicolás Maduro and his wife have been captured, flown out of the country.
The warning followed a dramatic press conference by U.S. President Donald Trump, who announced that American forces had successfully taken custody of Maduro and his wife, that the United States would assume control of Venezuela, with U.S. oil companies set to manage the country’s vast energy sector.
“This is a direct violation of our sovereignty, an act of foreign domination,” Venezuela’s Defence Minister said in a nationwide broadcast.
“Any attempt to impose external rule on Venezuela will be met with firm, legitimate resistance by our armed forces.”
Trump described the operation as decisive, stating that U.S. intervention was necessary to restore order, secure strategic interests.
He confirmed that transitional administrative measures were already underway, signaling a profound shift in Venezuela’s political and economic control.
The development has triggered intense international reaction, with analysts warning that U.S. move to rule Venezuela marks one of the most daring and consequential interventions in Latin America, in decades.
Regional governments are reportedly convening emergency meetings as fears grow over potential military escalation and regional instability.
Inside Venezuela, tension is rising. While state institutions continue to function, the confirmation of Maduro’s capture has sparked uncertainty across the country.
Pro government voices have called for national unity and resistance, while opposition figures urge calm amid fears of violence.
Global oil markets reacted swiftly, as Venezuela’s role as a major energy holder places it at the center of the unfolding crisis.
Experts warn that prolonged instability could have far reaching consequences for international energy supply and geopolitical balance.
As both sides harden their positions, the situation remains extremely volatile, with the risk of confrontation looming large.
