U.S. Captures Maduro; Trump Questions Designated Successor

U.S. forces captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro in a military operation on Saturday, according to the country's defense minister. The minister stated that several members of Maduro's security team were killed during the action. In response, Venezuela has deployed its armed forces nationwide. Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino said the move is to protect national sovereignty. Following the capture, U.S. President Donald Trump cast doubt on whether opposition figure María Corina Machado could lead Venezuela. Machado is widely recognized as the winner of the country's 2024 presidential primary. Trump said Washington would "run" Venezuela until what he called a proper and safe transition of power can occur. This statement has raised international concerns about a potential power vacuum in the country.