U.S. President Donald Trump said American energy companies would play a major role in Venezuela’s oil sector, describing them as the “biggest and best” in the world. The statement came hours after U.S. forces captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, during an early-morning raid on Saturday.

Vice President JD Vance added that the U.S. had repeatedly warned Maduro and offered “off ramps,” but would not tolerate drug trafficking or stolen oil.

Delta Force Operation and Legal Action

Officials said the raid was carried out by Delta Force operators in coordination with U.S. law enforcement. Attorney General Pam Bondi confirmed indictments in Manhattan federal court and praised the military for executing a “successful operation.”

Caracas Responds

Venezuelan Defence Minister Vladimir Padrino López mobilized forces nationwide, calling the strike the worst aggression in Venezuela’s history. The government declared a state of external disturbance and accused the U.S. of targeting both civilian and military sites. Residents reported fires, smoke, and power outages near major military facilities.

The operation marks the culmination of months-long U.S. pressure aimed at removing Maduro, who has led Venezuela since 2013. Trump has repeatedly accused him of running a narco-state and warned of military action if he did not step down.