The Current The US has captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. Now what?
Jan 5, 2026
Phil Gunson, a senior analyst for the Andes region at the International Crisis Group, and Luis Duno-Gottberg, a Venezuelan scholar at Rice University, share their insights after the U.S. military captured Nicolás Maduro. They discuss the swift complexities of the raid, the implications for power dynamics within Venezuela, and fears among citizens about continued governance. Luis highlights Venezuelans' yearning for peace and basic needs while pondering U.S. motives. Both guests emphasize the resilience within Venezuela as it faces uncertain political waters.
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Swift Capture And Heavy Toll
- The U.S. carried out a rapid military operation that captured Nicolás Maduro and his wife from Caracas.
- Phil Gunson says the extraction seemed efficient but many guards died and no US servicepeople were reported killed.
What 'Running' Venezuela Really Means
- The U.S. claims it now 'runs' Venezuela through threats and conditional cooperation.
- Gunson argues that claim means Venezuela's government will have to follow U.S. orders or face harsher consequences.
Armed Forces Decide The Outcome
- Control of the armed forces, police and colectivos will determine who truly governs Venezuela.
- Gunson highlights Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino and Diosdado Cabello as key power holders beyond Delcy Rodríguez.