The United States has announced it will temporarily take charge of Venezuela following a major military operation that reportedly led to the capture of President Nicolás Maduro.
Speaking in Washington, US President Donald Trump said American forces carried out coordinated air, land and sea strikes, describing the action as swift and decisive.
He claimed Mr Maduro and his wife were taken into custody without the loss of any US service personnel.
President Trump said the United States would now oversee Venezuela’s affairs until what he called a “safe, proper and orderly transition” of power is achieved.
According to him, American officials will help stabilise the country and revive its oil sector, with US companies expected to repair damaged energy infrastructure.
The US leader also warned that Washington is prepared to launch further military action if necessary, though he said it may not be required following the success of the initial operation.
In Caracas, the Venezuelan government rejected the US claims. Vice President Delcy Rodríguez insisted Nicolás Maduro remains the country’s only legitimate president and described the US action as a grave act of military aggression.
Venezuela has since declared a national emergency.
International reactions have been mixed. Some European leaders have called for restraint and respect for international law, while others renewed support for a democratic transition in Venezuela.
The European Union urged calm and warned against any steps that could worsen instability in the region.
Meanwhile, reports say Mr Maduro is being flown to the United States to face long-standing drug trafficking and weapons charges, which he has repeatedly denied.
The development marks a dramatic shift in US policy towards Venezuela and raises fresh concerns about sovereignty, regional security and the future political direction of the oil-rich South American nation.