Venezuelan Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino issued a strong statement on January 4, 2026, following the U.S. military operation that captured President Nicolás Maduro. Padrino called the operation “a form of military aggression” and demanded the immediate release of the constitutional president, along with First Lady Dr. Silvia Flores de Maduro, emphasizing the violation of Venezuela’s sovereignty and constitution.
Why It Matters
The statement from Venezuela’s top military official underscores the heightened tensions between Caracas and Washington after the U.S. operation. By framing Maduro’s abduction as premeditated military aggression, the Venezuelan government asserts a narrative of sovereignty violation and positions itself as defending constitutional order, drawing international attention to the crisis.
What to Know
In a post shared on X, Padrino said, “We have seen an unprecedented deployment of forces against the Republic. It was premeditated, a form of military aggression which has resulted in the terrible consequences we see. Yesterday, the individual who represents the people of Venezuela as their president was abducted.”
Padrino reaffirmed that Nicolás Maduro is the constitutional president, elected for the 2025–2031 term, and described the elections as legitimate and secure. He also called for the release of First Lady Dr. Silvia Flores de Maduro, highlighting her role as a woman of principle who was abducted alongside the president. The statement urges the global community to recognize the violations against Venezuela’s sovereignty.
What People Are Saying
Supporters of Maduro’s government have echoed Padrino’s condemnation, framing the U.S. operation as a breach of international law and a threat to Venezuelan sovereignty. International observers note that the statement is likely aimed at rallying both domestic and global support, emphasizing the constitutional legitimacy of Maduro’s presidency.
Critics of Maduro, however, argue that the operation targets a leader accused of corruption, human rights abuses, and involvement in criminal networks. Analysts caution that the competing narratives may deepen polarization in international responses and complicate diplomatic efforts in the region.
What Happens Next
The Venezuelan government and military are expected to continue appealing to the international community for recognition of Maduro’s legitimacy and the immediate release of him and the First Lady. Observers anticipate that this confrontation will keep diplomatic and security tensions high, with potential repercussions for U.S.-Venezuelan relations and regional stability in Latin America.
