From Bus Driver To President: Nicolás Maduro ‘Captured’ By US Forces, Who Is He?

Nicolás Maduro : The United States has made an extraordinary claim that it has taken Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, into custody following what it described as a large-scale military operation carried out in the early hours of Saturday. The announcement, made by US President Donald Trump through a dramatic social media statement, has triggered global attention and uncertainty, as Venezuelan authorities have not confirmed the development. The claim came amid reports of explosions in Caracas, raising serious questions about the stability and immediate future of the South American nation.

US Announces High-Impact Operation In Venezuela

According to the statement issued by the US President, American forces carried out a coordinated strike targeting Venezuela’s leadership. The post claimed that President Maduro and his wife were captured and flown out of the country as part of the operation. It further stated that the mission was conducted in coordination with US law enforcement agencies and that more details would be shared at an upcoming press conference in Florida.

The announcement immediately drew international scrutiny, particularly because no independent confirmation was available from Caracas. Venezuelan officials remained silent in the hours following the claim, adding to the confusion and speculation surrounding the situation.

Explosions And Panic Reported In Caracas

Hours before the US statement, residents of Caracas reported a series of loud explosions across parts of the capital. Witnesses described low-flying aircraft overhead, followed by at least seven blasts that sent people rushing into the streets. Several videos and personal accounts circulated online, showing flashes in the sky and scenes of panic.

While the reported strikes appeared to last less than thirty minutes, the impact lingered much longer. Large sections of the city were left without electricity for several hours, disrupting daily life and emergency services. The sudden escalation has heightened fears of wider instability in the country.

Nicolás Maduro’s Political Journey

Nicolás Maduro’s rise to power has been one of the most debated political stories in Latin America. Born in Caracas in 1962, he began his working life as a bus driver before becoming a metro union leader. His political career gained momentum through his close association with Hugo Chávez and Venezuela’s left-wing movement.

Maduro went on to serve as foreign minister for several years, playing a key role in shaping regional alliances across Latin America. In 2012, he was appointed vice-president and later became interim president following Chávez’s death in 2013. He won a closely fought election later that year and has remained in power since, despite repeated challenges to the legitimacy of his leadership.

Long-Running Tensions With Washington

Relations between the United States and Venezuela have been strained for years. Washington has consistently accused Maduro’s administration of human rights violations, electoral manipulation and links to organised crime. His presidency has coincided with severe economic decline, widespread shortages, mass protests and a growing exodus of Venezuelans seeking better opportunities abroad.

In recent years, US pressure intensified through sanctions and legal action, further isolating Venezuela on the global stage. The latest claim of Maduro’s capture represents the most dramatic escalation yet in this long-running confrontation.

Uncertainty Over What Comes Next

With no confirmation from Venezuelan authorities, the situation remains fluid and deeply uncertain. Analysts warn that conflicting narratives and lack of verified information could fuel unrest within the country and complicate diplomatic relations across the region.