Latest Politics News
US Strikes Venezuela and Captures Maduro
On January 3, US President Donald Trump announced large-scale strikes on Venezuelan military targets including Fort Tiuna and airfields, resulting in the capture of President Nicol谩s Maduro and his wife. US Attorney General Pamela Bondi stated they face drug charges in American courts.
Trump claimed the US will 'run' Venezuela until a proper transition.
Trump Declares US Control Over Venezuela
President Trump stated the US intends to control Venezuela, designating officials to run the government and inviting US oil companies to invest billions. He threatened larger attacks if needed and dismissed opposition leader Mar铆a Corina Machado as lacking respect to govern.
A national state of emergency was declared in Venezuela.
Global Outrage Over US 'State Terrorism' in Venezuela
World leaders condemned the strikes as illegal aggression; Brazil's Lula called it a serious affront to sovereignty. Iran labeled it a flagrant violation of territorial integrity, while Russia also criticized the action.
Many US adversaries and neighbors expressed fears of escalation.
Democrats Denounce Trump鈥檚 Venezuela Action as 'Illegal War'
Democratic lawmakers called the strikes 'Iraq 2.0' and an illegal bypass of Congress without a post-action plan. Potential 2028 Democratic hopefuls scolded Trump, uniting against the move.
Trump dismissed critics as 'weak, stupid people' on Fox News.
Republicans Rally Behind Trump After Maduro Capture
Florida Republicans, representing the largest Venezuelan population in the US, quickly applauded the operation after weeks of calls for action. Trump hawks in the White House prevailed despite MAGA base skepticism on foreign engagement.
Trump took a victory lap, confirming the raid's success.
Chatham House Experts Analyze US Strikes
Experts noted surprise at Maduro's capture for trial on narcotics and crimes against humanity; strikes targeted unoccupied military sites. Venezuela's vice president confirmed Maduro's removal via phone press conference.
Full invasion unlikely, but special forces may support ongoing strikes.
Canadian PM Carney Urges Venezuelan-Led Transition
Mark Carney called for a Venezuelan-led transition post-Maduro capture, without naming Trump. This reflects international calls for deescalation amid US plans for direct involvement.
Concern grows for regional stability.
Yemen Ends Defense Pact with UAE
Yemen's leader Rashad al-Alimi ordered all Emirati forces to leave within 24 hours, declaring a 90-day emergency and regional blockade. The UAE confirmed its forces' withdrawal.
This escalates Middle East tensions amid global focus on Venezuela.
Iran Protests Escalate with Rising Death Toll
Violence around economic protests in Iran killed at least 10, with two more deaths reported. Mass demonstrations respond to worsening conditions.
Trump recently warned Iran amid these events.
US Judge Blocks Trump Deportation Plan
Federal Judge Angel Kelley halted the end of temporary protected status for South Sudanese nationals. This challenges Trump administration immigration policies.
Separately, a Wisconsin judge resigned after obstructing an immigrant arrest.
Putin Signs Law Ignoring Foreign Court Rulings
Russian President Vladimir Putin enacted a law allowing disregard of foreign or international criminal judgments without treaty or UN basis. This bolsters Russia's stance against external legal pressures.
Federal Judges Strike Down California Open-Carry Ban
US judges invalidated California's open-carry prohibition; the state is reviewing options. This domestic ruling contrasts with international crises.