Trump Declares Victory: First Photo of Captured Nicolas Maduro on US Warship Released

In a historic development on January 3, 2026, United States President Donald Trump has announced the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, following large-scale airstrikes in Caracas. India Today's US Correspondent Rohit Sharma reports that the operation was planned four days ago and executed after weather clearance, with the US military breaching a 'highly guarded fortress' to apprehend the leaders. Defense Editor Sandeep Unnithan analyzes the first released image of Maduro aboard a US naval vessel, noting that his gear—including a life preserver and helmet—is consistent with standard safety protocols for passengers on US military aircraft like the C-2 Greyhound. The captured leaders are being transported to New York to face trial on narco-terrorism charges. The report also highlights the strategic implications for Venezuela's oil reserves and the upcoming press conference by President Trump and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth.