US Attacks in Venezuela Killed at Least 40 People

At least 40 people, including civilians and members of the armed forces, were killed during a US military operation in Venezuela that aimed to seize President Nicolás Maduro, according to a report by The New York Times.

The newspaper quoted a senior Venezuelan official, speaking anonymously, as saying dozens died during the assault. US officials told the outlet the operation began with an extensive air campaign designed to dismantle Venezuela’s air defence systems before troops were inserted on the ground.

More than 150 US aircraft were reportedly involved in disabling radar and missile sites, allowing military helicopters to transport forces to the location where Maduro was targeted, the report said.

The White House and the Pentagon have not publicly confirmed the death toll or provided full details about the scale of the operation.

US troops reportedly detained Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, and flew them out of the country early Saturday. President Donald Trump later described the mission as a high-risk overnight operation and said Washington would oversee Venezuela until what he called a “safe, orderly and responsible transition” takes place.

On the same day, federal prosecutors in New York made public an indictment accusing Maduro and Flores of involvement in large-scale cocaine trafficking to the United States, along with other alleged offenses.

The military action has drawn sharp criticism, with opponents arguing it breaches international law, circumvents congressional approval, and could further destabilize Venezuela and the broader region.